Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a strong and cooperative relationship with the Lagos State House of Assembly. This pledge follows the emergence of Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker of the House.
The governor hosted Meranda and other principal officers at the Lagos House in Ikeja, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms to sustain the state’s reputation for excellence in governance.
Sanwo-Olu expressed his optimism for the future during the meeting. “This alignment between the Executive and Legislative arms ensures that Lagos remains a model of excellence in governance. We will build on the successes of the past and work tirelessly to deliver transformational progress across all sectors,” he stated.
The governor’s remarks come in the wake of significant leadership changes in the Assembly. Last week, former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was impeached after serving since 2015.
Obasa, who represented Agege State Constituency I, faced allegations of misconduct, abuse of office, and financial misappropriation. Reports indicate that 90% of the House members supported his removal.
In a viral video explaining the decision, a lawmaker noted, “It is only death that is constant, so change is inevitable. Members of the parliament today have decided to change the leadership of the House. The members of the House felt we had had enough of the leadership of Mudashiru Obasa.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, reiterated his stance on the independence of the legislature. “It is purely a legislative matter, and the Assembly handled it the best way they could. It has nothing to do with the governor,” Akosile said, referencing constitutional provisions on the separation of powers.
The leadership reshuffle also saw Olalekan Onafeko, the Clerk of the House, suspended indefinitely, while Hon. Mojeed Fatai was elected as the new Deputy Speaker.
