MUDASHIRU OBASA has been reinstated as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down just weeks after assuming office.
During a special plenary session on Monday, Meranda formally announced her resignation, reading from her letter: “This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.” Her resignation was accompanied by the stepping down of all principal officers appointed alongside her, marking a significant shift in the Assembly’s leadership.
The leadership crisis within the House has been ongoing since Obasa’s removal in January, a decision backed by over 30 lawmakers. However, negotiations involving key political figures, including Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi and the state’s Attorney General Lawal Pedro, ultimately led to Meranda’s departure and Obasa’s return.
Before the plenary, Meranda, Obasa, and other lawmakers held a high-level meeting under a tent within the Assembly complex. Sources revealed that the meeting, which started around 1:30 p.m., was aimed at resolving the division caused by Obasa’s impeachment. Lagos APC leaders and other stakeholders reportedly played a crucial role in brokering the agreement that led to Meranda’s resignation.
Obasa, who was impeached in February amid allegations of corruption, engaged in separate discussions with Ojelabi, Pedro, and other party leaders before leaving the meeting. By 2 p.m., the plenary began, and Meranda stepped down, allowing the Assembly to reinstate Obasa.
Despite the political reshuffling, lawmakers expressed appreciation for Meranda’s leadership during her short tenure. Aro Moshood (Oshodi-Isolo I) described her time in office as “positively life-transforming,” highlighting her role in maintaining stability during a politically sensitive period.
Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho II) commended her humility and resilience, stating, “You have made history with your resilience and humility. Your time may be short, but you have written your name in gold.”
David Setonji (Badagry II) also praised her, saying, “Her tenure, though brief, has been marked by efficiency, collaboration, and a commitment to legislative duties, earning her the respect of her fellow lawmakers.”
Following Meranda’s resignation, Obasa was sworn in immediately, officially reclaiming the Speaker’s seat. However, the political divisions within the House remain unresolved, as his removal in January had split lawmakers and state party leaders.
Meranda, in a swift turn of events, was nominated and sworn in as Deputy Speaker, ensuring that she still holds a significant position within the House.
