Lagos new Speaker fully takes over from Obasa, names principal officers

The new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, on Friday presided over her first plenary and named principal officers. Her predecessor, Mudashiru Obasa, who was sacked on Monday, didn’t attend the plenary. Meranda named Temitope Adedeji, representing Ifako/Ijaye Constituency 1, as the Majority Leader, while Richard Kasunmu, representing Ikeja Constituency 2, […]

The new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, on Friday presided over her first plenary and named principal officers.

Her predecessor, Mudashiru Obasa, who was sacked on Monday, didn’t attend the plenary.

Meranda named Temitope Adedeji, representing Ifako/Ijaye Constituency 1, as the Majority Leader, while Richard Kasunmu, representing Ikeja Constituency 2, was appointed Deputy Majority Leader.

David Setonji assumed the role of Chief Whip, with Ganiyu Sanni, representing Kosofe Constituency 1, as Deputy Chief Whip.

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She also announced the composition of the Selection Committee, which she will chair. Members include Deputy Speaker Fatai Mojeed (Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1), Majority Leader Temitope Adedeji, Chief Whip David Setonji, and Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa Constituency 2).

Acting Clerk, Taiwo Ottun, will serve as Secretary of the Committee.

In her address, Meranda expressed gratitude to her colleagues for entrusting her with the leadership of the 10th Assembly, pledging to work diligently in service to the state.

In her remarks, Meranda pledged to work tirelessly to uphold the virtues of transparency and good governance that “this House stands for.”

She said, “Today, we are reminded of the shared responsibilities that rest on our shoulders as representatives of the good people of Lagos State. We are elected to voice their concerns, aspirations, and needs. We are the guardians of this collective trust, and we must work to justify the faith they have placed in us.

“As we begin this new chapter in the history of our Assembly, I want to assure you that our administration will focus on working together for a better Lagos. We will work harmoniously with other arms of government to ensure the seamless delivery of democracy’s dividends to Lagosians, who are our core focus.

“Therefore, we will work to ensure that irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or religion, every Lagos resident is proud to say, ‘I am a Lagosian.’

“The synergy between us and other arms of government is crucial for good governance and democratic development. To achieve this, we must commit to maintaining an open line of communication with the Executive, led by Mr. Governor (Babajide Sanwo-Olu), fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. By doing so, we stand united to ensure that our vision aligns with that of the Executive for a better state.

“We will prioritise leaving the past behind and forging ahead. We will not dwell on past controversies or disagreements. Instead, we will focus on the great and pressing task ahead, which is delivering better services to the people of Lagos.

“We will strive to create a more inclusive and appropriate democracy where every citizen feels valued, respected, and empowered.

“We have much to do to achieve this vision. There is no division among us. We are united, and that is where we will draw our strength to take bold steps.

“Our focus will be on several key areas to strengthen legislative independence. Our top priority is ensuring that our vision remains robust and success-driven.

“We will promote transparency and accountability in governance, ensuring that our actions are guided by integrity, fairness, and justice.

“As we begin this new chapter, let us be reminded that we are not just lawmakers, but also leaders. We must lead by example, demonstrating the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability, as expected of others.

“As Speaker, I commit to prioritising the needs of our constituents. Through you, we will ensure that united voices are heard, concerns are addressed, and our welfare is protected.

“Our goal is to create a more inclusive, participatory democracy where citizens are actively engaged in the decision-making processes that impact their lives.”

The House thereafter adjourned plenary to January 21, 2025.