MOJISOLA MERANDA BOWS TO PRESSURE, RESIGNS AS LAGOS SPEAKER
Mojisola Meranda has resigned as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, just seven weeks after assuming the leadership role. The lawmaker, who represents Apapa Constituency I, announced her resignation on Monday. Following her decision, her colleagues re-elected her as the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly.
During the session, lawmakers praised Meranda for her leadership style, which they credited with bringing peace to the Lagos State House of Assembly. They also commended her strength and humility in adhering to the rules and regulations of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Meranda’s resignation came after a reported meeting with high-ranking members of the APC in the state, aimed at resolving the leadership crisis that has plagued the Assembly in recent weeks.
The crisis escalated on January 13, 2025, when Mudashiru Obasa, the lawmaker representing Agege Constituency I, was removed as Speaker by more than two-thirds of the 40-member House. Obasa was ousted over allegations of misconduct and other offenses. Following his removal, Meranda was immediately elected as the new Speaker, making her the first woman to lead the legislative body in the South-West state.
However, on January 25, 2025, Obasa vehemently rejected his removal, insisting that he remained the legitimate Speaker. He criticized the impeachment process, alleging that the Assembly complex was militarized during the proceedings and that his removal occurred in his absence while he was out of the country.
Despite Obasa’s protests, 36 lawmakers loyal to Meranda maintained that his removal was final and that Meranda was the rightful Speaker.
Tensions flared again on February 17, 2025, when security agents and legislative workers clashed over the presence of armed personnel in the Assembly complex. In response, 36 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda, who appeared emotional during the session. The House subsequently adjourned indefinitely.
On February 27, 2025, Obasa made his first appearance at the Assembly Complex since his removal, accompanied by a large contingent of armed security operatives. He entered the hallowed chambers, reiterating his claim that he remained the Speaker despite strong opposition from his colleagues, who continued to pledge their loyalty to Meranda.
