The Governor Advisory Council (GAC) of Lagos State, a shadowy but immensely influential political body, continues to shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s commercial hub. With Prince Tajudeen Olusi at its helm, the council wields unparalleled authority in deciding who rises and falls within Lagos’ political landscape.
Over the years, the GAC has cemented its reputation as Lagos’ ultimate political power broker. Akinwunmi Ambode’s tenure as governor serves as a cautionary tale. Despite his administration’s successes, Ambode became the first Lagos governor to be denied a second term in 2019. His downfall, sources say, was tied to his perceived disregard for the GAC and its members.
A close associate of the former governor, speaking anonymously, explained: “The GAC is not just a council; it is the heart of Lagos politics. Ambode underestimated their reach, and when he stopped playing by their rules, he sealed his fate. It wasn’t about governance but about loyalty and preserving their grip on power.”
The GAC’s alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos’ political godfather, played a critical role in Ambode’s ouster. This move sent a powerful message: any politician who challenges the GAC risks political extinction.
The council has recently turned its sights on another high-profile figure: Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Obasa’s political prominence grew significantly in recent years, but his decision to declare his ambition for the 2027 governorship, without GAC approval, marked his undoing.
A political insider revealed, “Obasa’s ambition wasn’t the issue. The problem was his failure to consult the GAC. The council has a vision for 2027, and Obasa’s plans didn’t align with theirs. They couldn’t let him disrupt their strategy, especially with the stakes so high.”
Obasa’s removal was swift, with the GAC moving quickly to reassert control. In a move widely seen as a show of allegiance, the newly elected Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly wasted no time in heading to the State House Marina to pay homage to GAC members. During the visit, the Speaker openly declared loyalty to the council and its vision for Lagos.
A source familiar with the events remarked, “It was a strategic move. The new Speaker understands the GAC’s influence and knows that aligning with them is essential for political survival. It’s a clear signal to others in Lagos politics: fall in line or face the consequences.”
This calculated move against Obasa underscores the GAC’s commitment to maintaining its influence and ensuring unwavering loyalty from Lagos’ political elite.
Even Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, despite holding the state’s highest office, is viewed as a product of the GAC’s influence. A former political aide commented, “Sanwo-Olu’s loyalty to the GAC is one of his greatest strengths. He understands their importance and doesn’t try to overshadow them. This relationship has allowed him to neutralize opposition, including Obasa, with their backing.”
The council’s clout is further amplified by its close ties to Tinubu, who established the GAC during his tenure as Lagos governor to consolidate his political dominance. Many of the council’s members are Tinubu loyalists, ensuring that their decisions carry the weight of presidential backing.
“Tinubu’s presidency has given the GAC an unparalleled edge,” a political analyst noted. “They now have the backing of the highest office in the land, which makes their grip on Lagos unshakable. Obasa underestimated this when he declared his ambition.”
The GAC’s internal operations are marked by discretion and precision. Meetings are held in secrecy, and decisions are often executed through proxies or operatives, leaving little room for dissent.
“Decisions are made collectively, but the execution is strategic,” an insider shared. “If you’re not aligned with their vision, they’ll either sideline you or remove you entirely. That’s how they’ve maintained control for so long.”
As Lagos approaches the 2027 elections, the GAC’s dominance faces increasing scrutiny. Its ability to sideline powerful figures like Obasa underscores its influence, but questions about its methods and the broader implications for Lagos’ democracy persist.
For now, one thing remains clear: the GAC is the undisputed kingmaker in Lagos politics. Whether this dominance will endure or face resistance in the future remains a story to watch.(Western Life)
