The Lagos State House of Assembly saw a historic shift in leadership as Mojisola Meranda officially assumed office as the Speaker on Monday, January 27, 2025. Accompanied by fellow lawmakers, Meranda walked into her new office with chants of support echoing around her.
Following her swearing-in ceremony, lawmakers gathered around her, enthusiastically voicing their backing. “Madam, continue your work; your work is appealing to us. You are the Speaker, you are the Speaker, you are the Speaker. Speak for Lagos. Continue with your work,” they cheered.
In a sharp contrast, the impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was notably absent, continuing to challenge his removal. Obasa, who argued that the process behind his ousting was flawed, insisted he remained the legitimate Speaker. “I am not disturbed or perturbed and I am not afraid. I will debunk all the allegations levelled against me by the House. I have not done anything wrong. I have been a lawmaker for over two decades and I am the longest-serving lawmaker in the House,” Obasa stated.
As tensions mounted, security was heightened around the Assembly as Obasa’s supporters continued to back his claims. Lawmakers were required to present valid identification to access the premises.
Meranda’s ascension signals a fresh chapter for the Lagos State House of Assembly, with her leadership now under the spotlight.