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

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.