The political tension surrounding the Lagos State House of Assembly has escalated, with reports indicating that former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s faction is intensifying efforts to remove current Speaker Mojisola Meranda. According to a source within the Assembly, despite several failed attempts since Meranda’s appointment on January 13, 2025, there are fresh schemes underway to bring Obasa back into power.
This time, the plan involves electing a lawmaker from the West—likely from Ikeja—after attempts with a candidate from Ifako-Ijaiye failed. A select group of APC leaders, supportive of Obasa, is pushing for a proxy speaker from Ikeja, with plans to later clear the way for Obasa’s return. The strategy involves having Obasa resign once in office, paving the way for a popular candidate to take over.
However, Meranda’s supporters within the House remain steadfast, reiterating their unwavering loyalty to the Speaker despite these ongoing machinations. One anonymous APC member voiced frustration over Abuja’s influence in the matter, citing concerns over external interference in the democratic decisions of the Lagos Assembly.
Public commentators like Benjamin Mokwunye have raised questions about the involvement of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), speculating it may have played a role in sanctioning Obasa’s removal. While some GAC members have voiced opposition to the removal, the procedure followed by lawmakers was democratic, fueled by allegations of financial mismanagement and misconduct against Obasa.
Meanwhile, the political atmosphere remains tense as the focus shifts to potential political consequences, with critics warning the APC leadership against reinstating Obasa, arguing it would risk alienating the party’s rank and file. The call is for the party and its leaders to move beyond the issue of Obasa’s leadership and recalibrate their strategy moving forward.
In parallel, members of the Lagos House of Assembly recently commended President Bola Tinubu for his governance, acknowledging positive impacts such as the strengthening of the Naira and improvements in the economy. Despite the internal assembly crisis, lawmakers expressed their support for the President’s efforts in addressing national challenges such as insecurity and inflation. Speaker Meranda also expressed optimism for the future, encouraging continued progress under the current administration.
