Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, resigned from office on Monday after a short-lived 49-day tenure, sparking emotional scenes in the Assembly chamber.
Meranda’s resignation, along with the Deputy Speaker, Fatai Mojeed, Chief Whip, David Setonji, and Deputy Chief Whip, Sanni Okanlawon, left lawmakers and staff members in visible distress.
During the plenary session, lawmakers praised Meranda for her leadership style, describing her as a hero of democracy, kind, compassionate, and intelligent.
Desmond Elliot, a lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency 1, was overwhelmed by emotions and could not speak, while Abiodun Tobun of Epe Constituency 1 commended Meranda for being a role model for women and girls.
Key members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelade, and Deputy Chairman, Michael Mayegun, were present during the session, with many visibly emotional.
Meranda’s resignation comes just weeks after she replaced Mudashiru Obasa, who was impeached on January 13, 2025, over allegations of financial misconduct, abuse of office, and authoritarian leadership.
Despite her short tenure, Meranda was widely praised for her fairness and inclusive leadership style.
Following the resignations, the Assembly quickly announced a new leadership structure:
- Deputy Chief Whip: David Setonji (Reinstated)
- Deputy Majority Leader: Richard Kasumu
- Majority Leader: Adewale Temitope
- Chief Whip: Mojeed Fatai
Mojisola Meranda’s brief but impactful leadership has left a lasting impression on the Lagos State House of Assembly. Her resignation marks another chapter in the state’s political history, with many hailing her as a trailblazer for women in politics.
As the Assembly transitions into a new leadership, the focus will now shift towards stability and addressing the lingering political challenges facing Lagos State.
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