Akande, Osoba, Others Intervene in Lagos State House of Assembly, Nigeria Crisis:
Hon Mojisola Lasbat Meranda May Step Down for Engr Setonji David As Speaker
A truce appears to be taking shape in the crisis that has engulfed the Lagos State House of Assembly following the removal of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Western Post has learnt that former APC National Chairman and ex-Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; and Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Chief Pius Akinyelure, have stepped in to mediate.
The Assembly has been in turmoil since January 13, when Obasa was removed over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and highhandedness. His deputy, Hon. Lesbat Meranda, was appointed as Speaker in his place.
Obasa has since challenged his removal in court, arguing that due process was not followed.
Sources indicate that Akande, Osoba, and other key figures held an initial meeting with principal officers and House members over the weekend, with a follow-up meeting expected soon.
Emerging reports suggest that Hon. Meranda may have been urged to step down and return to her position as Deputy Speaker. A lawmaker from Lagos West—most likely Hon. Setonji David from Badagry—could be named as the new Speaker.
Beyond political maneuvering, concerns have arisen over regional representation in state leadership. With Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu from Lagos Central and Meranda as Speaker from the same zone, Lagos West would be left without a top position. Given this, stakeholders have reportedly recommended that Meranda step aside in favor of a representative from Lagos West, where Obasa hails from.
Western Post also learnt that Meranda had considered stepping down last Monday when the House reconvened. However, the warm reception she received from House members and staff, along with a vote of confidence in her leadership, made it difficult for her to throw in the towel.
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