The Lagos State House of Assembly has reinstated Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down on Monday after 49 days in the role.
Meranda’s resignation was part of a resolution brokered by a high-powered reconciliation panel led by former governors Chief Bisi Akande and Chief Olusegun Osoba. Their intervention, at the directive of President Bola Tinubu, sought to restore stability after Obasa’s impeachment on January 13 by over 30 lawmakers.
Obasa, who was in the United States at the time of his removal, had rejected the process, insisting it did not follow due constitutional procedure. His deputy, Meranda, was installed as Speaker in his absence. However, tensions persisted, prompting the involvement of APC leaders to mediate.
At Monday’s plenary, other key officers elected under Meranda, including Deputy Speaker Mojeed Fatai and Chief Whip Okanlawon Sani, also resigned. Addressing the House, Meranda said her decision was in the interest of democracy and to prevent further crisis.
“I took this decision carefully and with firm consideration. Leadership requires selfless sacrifice, and stepping down is necessary for stability,” she said.
Following her resignation, Obasa was returned as Speaker and took a fresh oath of office. In his remarks, he expressed gratitude to his colleagues and called for unity.
“Our primary duty is to serve Lagosians, and that’s what we remain committed to. This House has shown its ability to resolve internal issues and uphold integrity,” Obasa stated.
The resolution comes amid speculation that Obasa might still step down, as earlier suggested by APC leaders. However, party officials, including Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, have indicated that no such directive currently stands.
Meanwhile, Obasa’s court case challenging his impeachment remains pending. His lawyer, Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), stated that the Speaker has yet to decide on withdrawing the suit.
Meranda’s leadership was widely praised by lawmakers, who commended her for putting the party’s interest first.
Security was heightened around the Assembly complex before and after the plenary, with personnel from the police, DSS, NSCDC, and Lagos Neighbourhood Security Corps stationed around the premises.
With Obasa back in the saddle, the Lagos Assembly is now focused on restoring legislative harmony and moving forward from weeks of internal turbulence.