The lingering speakership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved following the intervention of key fig...
The lingering speakership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved following the intervention of key figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC). Reports indicate that both the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, might step aside to allow another lawmaker to lead the House.
This development comes after an intervention by APC heavyweights, including Chief Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, and Akinwunmi Ambode. Acting on directives from President Bola Tinubu, these political figures have been working to calm the situation after the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) failed to find a solution.
The Root of the Crisis
The crisis began on January 13, 2025, when 36 lawmakers voted to remove Obasa as Speaker, replacing him with Meranda, his deputy at the time. The lawmakers accused Obasa of:
Poor leadership style
Chronic lateness to legislative sessions
High-handedness and disregard for colleagues
Misappropriation and abuse of office
Intimidation and oppression of lawmakers
Obasa, who was in Atlanta, USA, during his impeachment, has since rejected the decision, insisting that he remains the Speaker. Speaking to newsmen on January 25, 2025, he said:
"I strongly believe I am still the Speaker until the right thing is done. If you want to remove me, do it properly, and I will not contest it."
APC Leaders Push for Compromise
To resolve the deadlock, former governors and APC stalwarts met at the Governor’s Lodge in Marina on Sunday, February 23, 2025, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the GAC members. Sources reveal that the meeting, which lasted until 7 PM, discussed a power shift within the House.
According to a GAC member, Chief Muraina Taiwo, the party is considering a ranking lawmaker from Lagos West as the new Speaker.
"The issue will die down soon. The APC leaders have suggested that both Obasa and Meranda step down to allow a new leader to emerge. The final decision will be made by President Tinubu."
Party leaders also ruled out selecting a Speaker from Lagos Central to maintain political balance, as the zone already holds the governorship position.
David Setonji in Consideration
Sources indicate that David Setonji, representing Badagry Constituency II, is among the top contenders for the position. Setonji, born in 1959, has served in the House since 2015 and is the current Chief Whip. His experience and seniority make him a strong candidate.
Obasa May Withdraw Lawsuit
As part of the resolution process, Obasa is expected to withdraw the lawsuit he filed against the Lagos Assembly and Meranda. He had challenged his removal in court, arguing that the impeachment took place during a recess.
A top APC source disclosed:
"Meranda will step down, and Obasa will also step down. A new Speaker will emerge from Lagos West. Part of the understanding is that Obasa will withdraw his court case to ensure peace."
Final Resolution Expected Soon
The GAC Chairman, Chief Tajudeen Olusi, confirmed that the party is actively mediating and will announce the final decision soon.
"The party is mediating, and at the appropriate time, we shall announce the conclusion."
With ongoing negotiations and APC leaders working behind the scenes, a new Speaker could emerge within the next week, marking an end to the crisis.
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