A major shake-up could be underway in the Lagos State House of Assembly, as Speaker Princess Mojisola Meranda may step down to make way for either David Setonji or Wale Rauf.
Meranda, who made history as the first female Speaker on January 13 following the removal of Mudashiru Obasa, is facing mounting pressure amid ongoing political negotiations. Obasa, ousted over allegations of corruption and abuse of office, has challenged his removal in court, arguing that due process was ignored.
Behind-the-scenes efforts to resolve the leadership tussle have drawn in heavyweight political figures, including former APC National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande, ex-Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and NNPC Board Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure. These key stakeholders are reportedly pushing for a power shift to Lagos West to balance the state’s political structure.
Currently, both Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Meranda hail from Lagos Central, leaving Lagos West without a top leadership position. With Obasa’s removal, political leaders argue that the Speakership should return to the district, setting the stage for either Setonji, the current Chief Whip and a lawmaker since 2015, or Rauf, a member of the Assembly since 2019, to take over.
Despite the political maneuvering, Meranda still enjoys strong backing within the House. On February 17, 36 out of 40 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in her leadership. However, the House has since adjourned indefinitely, signaling that negotiations are far from over.
As the battle for Lagos Assembly leadership intensifies, all eyes are on the next political move that could redefine the state’s power dynamics.
