Meranda resigns as speaker, re-elected as deputy speaker amid leadership uncertainty in Lagos assembl
The Lagos State House of Assembly again witnessed a dramatic sequence of events on Monday, as Speaker Mojisola Meranda resigned from her position, only to be reelected as the Deputy Speaker shortly afterward.
Her resignation paves the way for the potential reinstatement of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was removed from office on January 13, 2025.
Meranda Announces Her Resignation
At a special plenary session on Monday afternoon, Meranda formally announced her resignation. Reading her letter before the Assembly, she stated:
“This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.”
Alongside her, all principal officers appointed during her brief tenure also stepped down.
Despite her short time in office, lawmakers took turns commending her leadership, highlighting her ability to foster a positive legislative atmosphere. Aro Moshood (Oshodi-Isolo I) initiated the praise, describing her leadership as “positively life-transforming.”
Similarly, Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho II) emphasized her resilience and humility, adding,
“You have made history with your resilience and humility. Your time may be short, but you have written your name in gold.”
Other lawmakers echoed these sentiments, lauding her commitment to legislative excellence and her role in maintaining order during a period of political uncertainty.
David Setonji, from Badagry constituency II, said, “Her tenure, though brief, has been marked by efficiency, collaboration, and a commitment to legislative duties, earning her the respect of her fellow lawmakers.”
Meranda Reelected as Deputy Speaker
Following her resignation as Speaker, Meranda was immediately reelected as Deputy Speaker. Accepting the role, she pledged to serve the state in good faith.
Meanwhile, deliberations over the next Speaker began, with Mudashiru Obasa being nominated for a possible return.
Behind-the-Scenes Meeting Before the Plenary
Earlier in the day, ahead of the plenary, a crucial closed-door meeting took place outside the Assembly chambers. The meeting, attended by Meranda, Obasa, other lawmakers, and key political stakeholders, including the Lagos State Attorney General, Lawal Pedro, was aimed at resolving the leadership crisis.
Obasa, who arrived at the Assembly complex around 1:30 p.m., joined the meeting held under a tent. After a private discussion with the Attorney General and other party stakeholders, he left the meeting, leaving uncertainty over his next move.
Meranda Presides Over Plenary While Obasa’s Fate Remains Unclear
By 2:20 p.m., Meranda presided over the plenary session, as lawmakers continued to eulogize her leadership and legislative performance. While Obasa had been present at the Assembly earlier, he was notably absent from the plenary.
The situation remains fluid, with lawmakers awaiting the final decision on the House’s leadership. Although Obasa has been nominated, his reinstatement is yet to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, Meranda’s transition from Speaker to Deputy Speaker has further highlighted the shifting political activities within the Lagos State House of Assembly.
