Lagos Speaker Mojisola Meranda may step down as political talks intensify

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Princess Mojisola Meranda, may vacate her position, potentially paving the way for either Mr. David Setonji or Mr. Wale Rauf to take over.

This follows intervention efforts by notable political figures, including former APC National Chairman and ex-Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; and Chief Pius Akinyelure, Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

Meranda made history on January 13 as the first female Speaker of the House after Mudashiru Obasa was removed over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and high-handedness. However, Obasa has challenged his removal in court, claiming due process was not followed.

Sources reveal that political stakeholders met with principal officers and House members over the weekend, with another meeting expected soon. There are speculations that Meranda may be asked to return to her former role as Deputy Speaker, while either David Setonji (Badagry 2) or Wale Rauf (Amuwo Odofin 2), both from Lagos West, could emerge as the new Speaker.

Setonji, currently the Chief Whip, has been in the Assembly since 2015, while Rauf has served since 2019. This proposed change is said to be influenced by regional balance in the state’s leadership. At present, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Mojisola Meranda are both from Lagos Central, leaving Lagos West without a top leadership role. Since Obasa, who was removed, is from Lagos West, stakeholders have suggested that the next Speaker should come from the district.

Despite the ongoing discussions, 36 out of 40 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda on Monday, February 17, expressing support for her leadership. However, the House adjourned indefinitely, creating room for further negotiations.