Meranda Takes Charge: Lagos Assembly Lawmakers Unite Amid Tight Security and Obasa’s Absence

In a significant shift in leadership, Mojisola Meranda officially took over the office of Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday, following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa. Accompanied by lawmakers, Meranda made her way to her new office amidst chants of support from those present. The moment was marked with photographs as lawmakers expressed their approval, chanting, “Madam, continue your work; your work is appealing to us. You are the Speaker, you are the Speaker, you are the Speaker.”

Despite Meranda’s formal takeover, Obasa remains defiant, insisting that his impeachment did not follow due process. Addressing his supporters, he stated, “I am not disturbed or perturbed. I have not done anything wrong. I am the longest-serving lawmaker in the House, and I remain the Speaker.”

Security was notably tightened around the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday morning ahead of the day’s plenary. Large contingents of security personnel, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were stationed at strategic points around the Assembly complex. Vehicular and pedestrian movement was restricted, with stringent measures such as stop-and-search operations and identity checks at every entrance to the complex. Visitors, staff members, and journalists without valid identification were denied entry.

This security increase follows the controversial removal of Obasa, who was ousted on January 13, 2025, by a majority of lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct, financial misappropriation, and abuse of office. Obasa was absent from the last two plenary sessions and did not attend Monday’s sitting, which marked the third session presided over by Speaker Mojisola Meranda. The absence of the former Speaker, alongside the unity displayed by the remaining 39 lawmakers, is being seen as a strong signal of support for Meranda’s leadership.

In the wake of the impeachment, there were discussions within the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), which described the issue as a “family affair.” Mutiu Are, the Secretary of GAC, called for calm and urged that the matter be resolved amicably within the family, highlighting the importance of unity within the House.

As Mojisola Meranda settles into her role, it is expected that she will make key appointments, including the heads of standing committees overseeing various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Lagos State. This leadership change, while marked by controversy, reflects the ongoing power dynamics within the Lagos Assembly. The unfolding situation, with Meranda’s formal assumption of office and the absence of Obasa, continues to capture attention as political dynamics within Lagos evolve.