Lagos politics has long been dominated by the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), often compared to the revered Oyomesi council of the Oyo Empire.
The GAC has played a decisive role in shaping the state’s political landscape, from influencing the removal of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to the recent impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
The Origins of GAC
Established in 2006 by former Lagos governor and current Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the GAC is an organ of the ruling party that has held sway in Lagos since 1999 under different banners: the Alliance for Democracy (AD), the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and now the All Progressives Congress (APC).
While Tinubu is considered Lagos’ foremost political godfather, the GAC wields power that surpasses even the governor’s office.
This council of 30 members includes ex-governors, senators, and elder statesmen, with Prince Tajudeen Olusi as its chairman.
GAC’s Role in Speaker Obasa’s Impeachment
The recent impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa highlights the GAC’s influence. While the Lagos State House of Assembly carried out the process, political observers attribute the decision to GAC’s intervention.
Obasa’s alleged overstepping of party boundaries, disrespect for the governor’s office, and externalization of internal matters sealed his fate.
Despite being a GAC member, he was swiftly replaced, underscoring the council’s supreme authority in Lagos politics.
Ambode’s Downfall and GAC’s Grip
The GAC’s dominance became widely known in 2019 when the council blocked Akinwunmi Ambode’s second-term ambition. Allegations of sidelining the council’s interests were enough to end Ambode’s governorship.
Despite interventions from the then-president Muhammadu Buhari, Ambode was left to face a primary election he was destined to lose.
His exit marked the GAC’s firm grip on Lagos politics, though Ambode has since regained favor and joined the GAC.
Fashola’s Narrow Escape
Interestingly, Babatunde Fashola, Ambode’s predecessor, faced a similar challenge during his re-election bid. Rumors of a fallout with Tinubu nearly derailed his political career.
However, overwhelming public support allowed Fashola to secure a second term, marking one of the rare instances where GAC’s interests did not prevail.
Who Makes Up the GAC?
The GAC comprises prominent figures, including Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as well as respected leaders like Otunba Bushura Alebiosu, Alhaji Shakiru Seriki, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, and Dr. Oluranti Adebule.
These individuals, often referred to as the “power behind the throne,” make critical decisions affecting Lagos’ 20 million residents.
GAC: The Alpha and Omega of Lagos Politics
Over the years, the GAC has demonstrated that no major political event in Lagos happens without its input. From Ambode’s removal to Obasa’s impeachment, the council remains the ultimate power bloc that shapes the state’s future.
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