Mojisola Meranda

By Chibuike Nwabuko

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Speaker of the Lagos State Assembly Mojisola Meranda has finally gained access to the chambers of the House following hours of heavy security presence in and around the roads leading to the complex.

Monday’s incident comes amid the leadership tussle rocking the House of Assembly following the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as the speaker.

Precise Post recalls that Obasa was removed as Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker on 13th January while he was in the United States following allegations of misappropriation of funds, high-handedness and lack of transparency in the management of the Assembly’s affairs.

The impeachment sparked jubilation among lawmakers.

Obasa, in his third term as Speaker since 2015, represents Agege Constituency I.

Femi Saheed, who represents Kosofe Constituency II, moved the motion for the impeachment.

Citing Section 92(2) (C) of the 1999 Constitution, Saheed accused Obasa of gross misconduct and poor leadership

(Channels)

The Speaker of the Lagos State Assembly Mojisola Meranda has finally gained access to the chambers of the House following hours of heavy security presence in and around the roads leading to the complex.

Monday's incident comes amid the leadership tussle rocking the House of… pic.twitter.com/i8517rhuAS
— Channels Television (@channelstv) February 17, 2025

***The Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, in the midst of the the lawmakers***

IKEJA- Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday witnessed a significant shift in leadership, as the new Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, officially moved into the speaker’s office amidst members’ support.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Meranda was accompanied by members of the assembly to the complex in a show of solidarity and support.

NAN also reports that this development followed the impeachment of the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on Jan. 13, even though he had, on Saturday, described his removal as unconstitutional and laid claim to the office.

However, in spite of his insistence on being the speaker, Obasa was conspicuously absent from the assembly on Monday, amidst tight security to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

NAN reports that Meranda’s assumption of office witnessed a warm reception from her colleagues who had since accepted her leadership and rallied round her.

Members were seen following the speaker to her office, signaling a collective endorsement of the new leadership.

The absence of Obasa, who had promised to resume duties on Monday, has raised questions about his next step.

NAN reports that the atmosphere at the assembly complex on Monday reflected the lawmakers’ readiness to help pull through Meranda’s resolve to maintain stability and uphold legislative duties after the change of leadership.

Members were seen taking pictures with the speaker, while the acting Clerk equally joined in the celebrations. (NAN)

LAGOS- Mr Ayoola Lawal, a former Secretary of the APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen, has urged members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to close tanks and ensure support for its first female Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.

Lawal, the immediate past APC chairman in the Scandinavian countries, also urged the immediate past speaker, Mudashiru Obasa to support the new leadership with focus on a greater Lagos state.

In a statement on Friday, the APC diaspora chieftain stated that the leadership change and emergence of Meranda marked a pivotal moment in the state’s legislative history.

Lawal, who is also a former APC aspirant to the Lagos state house of assembly, called for unity and collective focus on the state’s progress.

He celebrated the emergence of Meranda as a transformative milestone, describing it as a testament to Lagos’s progressive politics and commitment to inclusivity.

“This is indeed an exceptional moment for our home, Lagos state, fondly called Eko Ile. The election of Meranda as the first female speaker symbolises our state’s advancement in inclusivity and governance.

” It is an opportunity for all people of Lagos, home and in the diaspora, to rally behind her leadership and support the assembly’s mission for continued growth of our beloved state.”

According to him, Meranda, serving as Chip Whip and Chair of Key committees, depicts that she earned the trust of her colleagues since her election in 2015.

” Her emergence as speaker reflects the assembly’s confidence in her ability to lead with integrity and effectiveness.”

He, however, recognised the significant contributions of Obasa, a long-standing figure in Lagos politics, to the growth of the assembly.

” Obasa’s two decades of service, from his early days as a councillor to his tenure as a three-time speaker, were instrumental in shaping Lagos’s legislative achievements.

“Obasa’s years of service have left an indelible mark on Lagos state. His experience and institutional knowledge remain invaluable, and I urge him to support the new leadership for the greater good of Lagos,” Lawal stated.

Lawal emphasised the importance of unity and reconciliation in the wake of the leadership change, urging aggrieved stakeholders to sheath their swords and focus on collective progress.

“It is crucial that we put aside individual interests and work together to serve the people and residents of Lagos state.

“The effectiveness of the assembly depends on our ability to prioritise unity and legislative harmony.”

He pointed out that the new speaker’s acceptance speech reflected her commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.

“She pledged to lead the assembly with a focus on good governance and welfare of all residents.

“Collaboration and shared purpose are essential for sustaining Lagos’s reputation as a model of development and governance in Nigeria.

“This leadership transition presents an opportunity to continue to build a greater Lagos of our dream under the leadership of our progressive-minded governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“Let us move beyond divisions and work collectively to ensure that Lagos continues to inspire progress, innovation, and unity for future generations.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Lagos assembly impeached Obasa on Jan.13, electing Meranda as its first female speaker. (NAN)

IKEJA- The Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pa Sunny Ajose, a member of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in the state.

Expressing her condolences during plenary on Friday, Meranda described Ajose as a political titan, seasoned administrator, and a symbol of selfless service and good governance.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Pa Sunny Ajose died on Thursday morning, at the age of 83.

Meranda said that Ajose was not just a leader, but a father figure whose counsel and foresight shaped many decisions that positively impacted Nigeria.

Highlighting Ajose’s political career, the speaker noted his tenure as Head of Service, during the administration of President Bola Tinubu as Lagos State governor.

Ajose was also a former Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.

“As the Badagry Apex Leader of the APC, Pa Ajose was celebrated for his steadfast commitment to progressive leadership and his dedication to the welfare of the people of Badagry and Lagos State.

“He would be remembered as a unifying figure, whose wisdom and passion inspired generations of leaders.

“His contributions to the growth and stability of our democracy remain an enduring legacy that will not be forgotten.

“His steadfast commitment to unity within the APC, and his tireless efforts for the betterment of his people, are traits that we must all strive to emulate,” she said.

Meranda urged Ajose’s family, friends, and the people of Lagos State to take solace in the knowledge that he lived a fulfilled life of service.

(NAN)