Mojisola Meranda’s tenure as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly came to an end on Monday after 49 days in office. Lawmakers re-elected Mudashiru Obasa, who had previously been removed from the position, bringing an end to the leadership dispute that had lasted nearly 50 days.
The resolution followed the intervention of a high-powered panel led by Chief Bisi Akande and Chief Olusegun Osoba, both former governors, who were tasked with mediating the crisis. President Bola Tinubu had enlisted their help to restore order within the House after Obasa was removed by over 30 lawmakers on January 13, 2025, while he was out of the country.
Obasa opposed his removal and took legal action, challenging the process. However, in a closed-door meeting before Monday’s plenary, he, Meranda, and other lawmakers met with Lagos APC leaders, including State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi and Attorney General Lawal Pedro (SAN). The meeting paved the way for Meranda’s resignation.
During her resignation speech, Meranda stated that her decision was made in the interest of democracy and stability. She said, “I wish to let every one of you know that I have made a personal sacrifice towards resolving the leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly.” She also reaffirmed her commitment to democracy and governance, following in the footsteps of her late father.
Following her resignation, other principal officers who were elected under Meranda, including Deputy Speaker Mojeed Fatai and Chief Whip Okanlawon Sani, also stepped down.
After being re-elected, Obasa took a fresh oath of office and assured Lagos residents that the Assembly would continue making laws for the state’s progress. He thanked Akande and Osoba for their efforts in resolving the crisis. “We want to assure Lagosians that we have resolved and determined to serve their interest and protect their interest always,” Obasa said.
Despite earlier discussions about Obasa stepping down after being reinstated, it remains uncertain if he will resign. Some sources suggested that a new Speaker from Lagos West might be considered, but no final decision has been made. Chief Muraina Taiwo, a member of the Governance Advisory Council, stated that Obasa’s resignation would be his personal decision unless directed by the party’s leadership.
Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi expressed satisfaction with the resolution and noted that peace had been restored. The party issued a statement, signed by spokesperson Seye Oladejo, congratulating lawmakers and the public on resolving the dispute.
Meanwhile, security at the Assembly complex was tightened, with heavy surveillance by police, civil defense officers, and other security agencies. Journalists were initially restricted from entering until later in the day.
Despite stepping down, Meranda received praise from her colleagues for her leadership. Many lawmakers, including Temitope Adewale and Tobun Abiodun, commended her for prioritizing the party’s unity. Some, including Desmond Elliot, were visibly emotional during the session.
