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Power Struggle in Lagos Assembly: Plot to Remove Speaker Meranda Intensifies

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There are strong indications that the camp of Mudashiru Obasa, the embattled ex-Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, is plotting to unseat the incumbent Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.

Reports emerged over the weekend that despite several failed attempts to remove Meranda since her emergence on January 13, 2025, efforts are underway to reposition Obasa for a return to power.

Strategic Moves to Reinstate Obasa

According to an inside source, key All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders who support Obasa are pushing for the election of a proxy speaker from the Ikeja constituency. The plan reportedly involves the proxy speaker resigning after a short period to pave the way for Obasa’s return, after which he is expected to step down for a more widely accepted candidate.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly have reaffirmed their unwavering support for Meranda, dismissing moves to replace her. “They even tried to install a proxy speaker to reinstate him within a few months,” a prominent APC chieftain revealed under anonymity.

The Governance Advisory Council (GAC), an influential but extra-constitutional body formed during Bola Tinubu’s tenure as governor, has also been drawn into the controversy. Observers believe the GAC played a role in Obasa’s removal, though only a few members have expressed opposition to his ousting.

Calls to Move Beyond the Crisis

Amid ongoing political maneuvering, analysts warn that reinstating Obasa could disrupt party stability and alienate lawmakers. Critics argue that his removal over alleged financial misappropriation, misconduct, and high-handedness was justified and democratic. “If party leaders interfere excessively in Assembly matters, they risk alienating lawmakers and weakening party unity,” noted political commentator Benjamin Mokwunye.

Lagos Lawmakers Commend Tinubu’s Leadership

In a separate development, lawmakers at a plenary session last Friday praised President Bola Tinubu, describing his administration as a blessing to Nigeria.

Tobun Abiodun (Epe I) highlighted the economic strides made under Tinubu, noting improvements in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a strengthening naira. “Tinubu’s policies have begun yielding results. The economy is recovering, and fuel scarcity has been addressed,” he stated.

Similarly, Adewale Temitope (Ifako-Ijaiye I) praised Tinubu’s administration for revitalizing refineries and reducing the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa II) commended the president’s efforts in tackling insecurity and curbing inflation.

In response, Speaker Mojisola Meranda expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, emphasizing that his policies would steer Nigeria toward economic stability. “I know President Tinubu will take us to the Promised Land. His investments in security and economic policies are yielding results,” Meranda stated.

She then directed the acting Clerk of the House, Abubakar Ottun, to send a commendation letter to President Tinubu, recognizing his administration’s achievements.

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Conference 57

Oshodi-Isolo LGA: A Thriving Urban Hub Transformed by Visionary Leadership

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The Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo LGA, Otunba Kehinde Almoroof Oloyede

Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area (LGA), one of Lagos State’s most vibrant and strategically located urban centers, is experiencing a remarkable era of transformation under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Otunba Kehinde Almoroof Oloyede. Known for its bustling markets, transport interchanges, and rich cultural tapestry, Oshodi-Isolo has long been central to the commercial heartbeat of Lagos. Today, that legacy is being expanded with a fresh wave of infrastructural, social, and economic development.


About Oshodi-Isolo LGA

Established in 1976, Oshodi-Isolo is located in western Lagos, bordered by Ikeja, Mushin, Amuwo-Odofin, and Alimosho LGAs. It encompasses prominent communities such as Oshodi, Isolo, Mafoluku, Ajao Estate, Ilasamaja, Okota, and parts of Ejigbo. With a diverse population that includes Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, and immigrants from West Africa, the LGA reflects the multicultural dynamism of Lagos itself.

Oshodi-Isolo is a major commercial and transportation hub. The area houses the Oshodi Transport Interchange, one of the largest in West Africa, and is renowned for markets like the Oshodi Market, which supports thousands of traders daily. Despite its economic vibrancy, the area has historically faced urban challenges such as traffic congestion, flooding, and housing pressure—issues that have begun to see improvement under current leadership.


Leadership and Achievements of Chairman Kehinde Oloyede

Since assuming office on August 1, 2021, Otunba Kehinde Almoroof Oloyede has committed to redefining governance at the grassroots. His administration has taken bold steps to address longstanding issues in infrastructure, education, health, and community development. With a focus on transparency, inclusiveness, and execution, he has positioned Oshodi-Isolo as one of the most progressive LGAs in Lagos.

Infrastructure Development

Oloyede’s tenure has seen the construction of over 50 roads, linking neighborhoods and easing internal mobility. These projects have tackled flood-prone zones with proper drainage systems and improved street lighting to enhance safety at night.

Water Projects

Clean water access has expanded significantly, with water projects executed in more than 45 streets. These efforts contribute to better hygiene, reduce water-borne diseases, and alleviate the stress of sourcing potable water in underserved areas.

Educational Support

Education remains a cornerstone of the Oloyede administration. The construction of an ultra-modern block of classrooms at St. Paul Primary School, Mafoluku, demonstrates a commitment to quality learning environments. His government has also distributed free school uniforms, books, and bags, and provided transportation for schoolchildren to support low-income families.

Healthcare Initiatives

A new standard Primary Healthcare Centre is under construction to boost access to basic health services. In addition, existing clinics are being upgraded, and awareness campaigns have focused on preventive care and maternal health.

Youth Empowerment and Social Welfare

Partnering with organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the LGA has delivered skill acquisition programs and vocational training for young people. His administration has also distributed palliative support to over 30,000 households, particularly during challenging economic periods.

Lagos LG Poll: APC Calls for Peace, Unity Among Aspirants


Recognition and Community Engagement

Chairman Oloyede’s performance has not gone unnoticed. In March 2025, civic organizations and media outlets acknowledged his excellence in local governance, citing him as a model for LGAs across Nigeria. He has also emphasized participatory governance, recently hosting a stakeholders’ forum for the 2025 budget, inviting residents to contribute ideas directly to development planning.


A Vision for the Future

With continued focus on transparency, infrastructure, and empowerment, Otunba Oloyede’s administration is setting the stage for a smarter, more livable Oshodi-Isolo. The transformation happening in markets, schools, and streets reflects a leadership that listens and acts—and a community ready to rise with it.

As Lagos State continues its broader push for urban renewal and inclusive growth, Oshodi-Isolo under Chairman Oloyede stands as a shining example of grassroots governance that delivers.

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NAFDAC Uncovers Illegal Fake Alcohol Factory in Lagos

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation in Lagos State, leading to the arrest of one suspect and the seizure of adulterated products valued at over ₦114 million.

In a statement released on Thursday, May 8, NAFDAC confirmed the arrest of Madu Abuchi Simon, who was allegedly involved in the counterfeiting of several popular alcoholic brands including Hennessy, William Lawson, Baileys, Martell, St. Remy, and Jameson.

During the raid, NAFDAC officials discovered a range of materials used in the illegal operation, such as expired Amarula cream liqueur, empty branded bottles and cartons, counterfeit labels, stoves, buckets, cotton wool, and a purple chemical believed to be used for cleaning and reusing bottles.

Simon reportedly attempted to flee the scene but was captured by enforcement agents. The agency confiscated more than 100 cartons of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and has sealed the facility pending further investigation.

NAFDAC Seals 3,000 Lagos Shops, Confiscates 12 Truckloads of Counterfeit Drugs

NAFDAC has urged consumers to purchase alcoholic products only from verified and reputable sources, and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs has initiated an investigation into alleged breaches of the Federal Character Principle by several government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

This follows a motion moved in March 2025 by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West), titled “Urgent Need to Address Systemic Abuse and Ineffective Implementation of the Federal Character Principle,” which was adopted by the Senate.

The motion cited widespread non-compliance with Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which require equitable representation in federal institutions.

Among the agencies under scrutiny are the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), NAFDAC, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), National Library of Nigeria (NLN), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), and the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).

According to Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh (Rivers East), Chairman of the Committee, the probe will examine irregularities in recruitment practices and distribution of federal infrastructure. The findings will be presented to the Senate within three months.

The investigative hearings will commence on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the Equal Opportunities Hearing Room 211, Senate Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja. All implicated agencies have been formally invited to attend and provide relevant documentation.

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Conference 57

Lagos LG Poll: APC Calls for Peace, Unity Among Aspirants

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has called for peace and unity among chairmanship and councillorship aspirants ahead of the party’s primary elections scheduled for May 10. The primaries will take place across the 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs).

The call was made during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Wednesday at the APC state secretariat in Ikeja. Chairman of the Lagos APC Election Committee, Babatunde Ogala, appealed to aspirants to consider adopting consensus candidates where possible, stressing that it would foster internal harmony and ensure a peaceful primary process.

“For the sake of unity and a rancour-free primary, we encourage aspirants to dialogue among themselves and reach a consensus where feasible,” Ogala said.

He also announced that, for logistical reasons, the chairmanship primaries will be conducted at the APC secretariat on Acme Road, Ikeja. Only chairmanship aspirants and one accredited agent each will be granted access to the venue.

LG Polls: APC Aspirants Reject Imposition Plot, Demand Fair Play

Ogala further clarified that only accredited delegates, aspirants, and their agents will be allowed entry into the primary election grounds, ensuring a controlled and transparent process.

He noted that the screening of aspirants had been thorough and urged all contestants to approach the election with a spirit of sportsmanship.

“This is not a do-or-die affair. The strength of the APC lies in its unity and commitment to due process,” Ogala emphasized.

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