Mojisola Lasbat Meranda: Profile of Lagos' First Female Speaker Since 1979

By Dansu Peter  Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, New Speaker, LAHA In a historic turn of events, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has emerged as the first fe...

By Dansu Peter 

Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, New Speaker, LAHA

In a historic turn of events, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has emerged as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly since its establishment in 1979. Her ascension to the role follows the impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa amidst corruption allegations that were first reported by *Peoples Gazette*.  

The decision to impeach Mr. Obasa was taken moments ago by members of the Lagos Assembly in a session that marked a significant shift in the state’s legislative history. Mrs. Meranda’s emergence as Speaker breaks a 46-year precedent where men exclusively led the legislative arm, beginning with Oladosu Oshinowo on October 2, 1979.  

A Trailblazer in Lagos Politics

Born on August 16, 1980, in Lagos, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has carved a path of steady political ascent. She was first elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015, representing Apapa Constituency 1, the same year Mr. Obasa became Speaker. Now in her third term, she has built a reputation as a staunch loyalist of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).  

Before her legislative career, Mrs. Meranda served as a political aide in Apapa Local Government Area from 2008 to 2014, gaining grassroots experience and honing her political acumen. Her private-sector experience includes running an oil and gas company, showcasing her versatility across different fields.  

Educational Background

Mrs. Meranda’s academic journey began at Randle Primary School and Anglican Girls Grammar School. She pursued higher education at Lagos State University for her undergraduate studies and later obtained a graduate degree from the University of Lagos, solidifying her academic credentials.  

A Milestone for Gender Representation  

While her legislative records remain largely unclear, parliamentary insiders describe her as a figure who consistently toes the party line, reinforcing her loyalty to the APC. Her rise to the Speakership is seen as a milestone for gender representation in Lagos politics, inspiring women across the state and beyond.  

Her appointment as Speaker comes at a time of political turbulence, with the allegations that led to Mr. Obasa’s impeachment still under scrutiny. However, Mrs. Meranda’s leadership is expected to usher in a new chapter for the Lagos Assembly, with many looking to her to navigate the challenges ahead.  

As the first woman to hold the gavel in Lagos, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda’s tenure promises to redefine the state’s legislative landscape and set a benchmark for future female leaders in Nigerian politics.