Meranda May Step Down as Lagos Speaker Amid Leadership Reshuffle Talks

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Princess Mojisola Meranda, may step down, potentially paving the way for either David Setonji or Wale Rauf to assume the position.

This development comes after intervention efforts by key political figures, including former APC National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande, former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and NNPC Board Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure.

Meranda made history as the first female Speaker of the House on January 13 after the removal of Mudashiru Obasa, who was accused of corruption and abuse of office. However, Obasa has challenged his removal in court, arguing that due process was not followed.

Sources indicate that political stakeholders recently met with House members to discuss the situation, with another meeting expected soon. There are speculations that Meranda may return to her former position as Deputy Speaker while one of the two lawmakers from Lagos West—Setonji (Badagry 2) or Rauf (Amuwo Odofin 2)—could take over as Speaker.

The push for a Lagos West representative in leadership stems from regional considerations, as both Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Meranda are from Lagos Central. With Obasa hailing from Lagos West, stakeholders are advocating for a replacement from the district.

Despite these discussions, 36 out of 40 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda on February 17, reaffirming their support for her leadership. However, the House has adjourned indefinitely, leaving room for further negotiations.