Paul Ibe, the media aide to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over the recent revelation about the legal status of Mudashiru Obasa, the impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
A Supreme Court document, dated July 24, 2020, revealed that Obasa is not a registered legal practitioner in Nigeria, despite claims to the contrary. The document, signed by Gertrude Karenton-Mordi on behalf of the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, came to light following a verification request about Obasa’s status as a lawyer.
In a post on social media platform X, Ibe questioned why this document, revealing Obasa’s unregistered status, was only made public after his impeachment. He expressed concern over the timing of the release, suggesting that the timing could be politically motivated.
Ibe further pointed out that there are many individuals in government positions, from lawmakers to top officials, who might be in similar situations. He accused some 2023 elected officials of being involved in various unethical activities, including forgery, fraud, and corruption. According to Ibe, several people like Obasa are still serving in high government positions.
“Why is the Supreme Court document alleging that impeached Speaker Obasa is not a registered legal practitioner just coming out now?” Ibe wrote. “By the way, there are several of such persons still serving in government from the very top to lawmakers. Among the class of 2023 are those who forged certificates; lied about schools they never attended; refunded money for links to drug trafficking; indicted for stealing funds of their clients and involved in credit card scams. There are several Obasas still holding sway.”
This statement has stirred controversy, as it raises questions about transparency and accountability among those holding influential positions in the government.