Mojisola Meranda Retains Speakership Of Lagos Assembly Amid Leadership Row.
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have firmly backed Mrs Mojisola Meranda as Speaker, dismissing claims of her resignation amid a brewing leadership dispute. The declaration came from Stephen Ogundipe, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, during a press briefing in Lagos on Friday.
The affirmation follows dramatic scenes on Thursday when ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa stormed the Assembly complex with a heavy security presence, proclaiming his return to the top post. Obasa, who was removed in January over allegations of misconduct and financial impropriety, insisted he had never been lawfully ousted. His appearance marked his first since losing the speakership and coincided with reports that security details assigned to Meranda had been withdrawn.
However, Ogundipe swiftly rebutted Obasa’s claims, calling his attempt to reclaim the position unconstitutional. In a strongly worded statement, he stressed that Meranda retains the confidence of 36 out of 40 Assembly members and remains the legitimate Speaker. “Any speculation suggesting her resignation is entirely unfounded,” Ogundipe said. “She is steadfastly committed to serving the people of Lagos.”
The Assembly spokesperson also condemned an alleged effort by Obasa and three supporters to hold an unauthorised plenary session. He explained that a legitimate sitting requires formal notice, a quorum, an approved agenda, and the presence of the mace—the ceremonial symbol of legislative authority. “None of these conditions were met,” Ogundipe noted, pointing out that only five members attended the impromptu gathering. “This renders the session null and void.”
The leadership tussle has sparked concerns over stability within the Assembly, but Ogundipe reassured residents that the institution remains dedicated to upholding democracy and good governance. “The Lagos State House of Assembly stands resolute in maintaining the highest parliamentary standards,” he said. “We will continue to act within the law to protect the progress of our state.”
Ogundipe also highlighted Meranda’s leadership, praising her dedication and the broad support she enjoys among lawmakers. He added that the Assembly is working closely with the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership to resolve internal disputes amicably, while keeping its focus on legislative duties and the welfare of Lagosians.
The controversy comes as Nigeria’s political landscape remains dynamic, with President Tinubu recently signing the N54.99 trillion 2025 Budget into law—a move seen as a boost to economic stability. Against this backdrop, Ogundipe urged stakeholders and the public to ignore misinformation and trust in the Assembly’s commitment to democratic principles.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on Lagos, where Meranda’s leadership and the Assembly’s unity will be tested in the days ahead. For now, the message from the majority is clear: Mojisola Meranda is here to stay.
