Our reporter
A significant shift is underway in the leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly as Hon. Mojisola Meranda prepares to step down from her position as Speaker, returning to her former role as Deputy Speaker.
This move comes amid a growing leadership crisis within the Assembly, which has seen numerous twists since the removal of the former Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on January 13. A vote by 32 out of the 40 Assembly members ousted Obasa, citing allegations of fraud and authoritarian behaviour. In the wake of his removal, Meranda was appointed as Speaker, but reports now suggest that the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership has expressed reservations over her appointment.
To resolve the ongoing leadership conflict, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) has scheduled a meeting for Monday in Lagos, where it is expected to select three lawmakers from the Lagos West Senatorial District to stand for election as the next Speaker. This decision will ultimately determine who will replace Obasa, with the new Speaker to come from the same district as the former leader.
The process will be highly scrutinised, as there are currently eight seasoned lawmakers vying for the role. Among them are Hon. Setonji David (Badagry 2), Hon. Temitope Adewale (Ifako-Ijaye 1), Hon. Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho 1), Hon. Richard Kasunmu (Ikeja 2), Hon. Lukmon Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun 1), Hon. Age Sulaimon (Amuwo-Odofin 2), Hon. Surajudeen Tijani (Ojo 2), and Hon. Nureni Akinsanya (Mushin 2).
Though the GAC’s decision will undoubtedly affect the political landscape of Lagos, it is widely expected that Obasa’s removal remains irreversible, and he will not be reinstated to his former role.
The meeting will be pivotal in determining the next steps in resolving the power vacuum and ensuring stability in the Lagos House of Assembly.