Lagos Assembly Crisis: Engr. Setonji May Emerge New Speaker as Meranda Likely Resign After Akande, Osoba's Intervention

By Dansu Peter  Barring any last-minute changes, a major shift is unfolding in the leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assemb...

By Dansu Peter 

Barring any last-minute changes, a major shift is unfolding in the leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly, with strong indications that Hon. Engr. Setonji David representing Badagry  Constituency II may emerge as the new Speaker. This development follows high-level interventions by prominent political figures, including 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, an exclusive report by Western Post revealed 

The crisis began on January 13, when Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was controversially removed over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and highhandedness. In his place, Hon. Lesbat Meranda was appointed as Speaker. However, Obasa has since challenged his removal in court, claiming due process was not followed.

According to Western Post, Sources reveal that Akande, Osoba, and other influential stakeholders have held crucial meetings with Assembly principal officers and members in an attempt to restore order and ensure a fair resolution. Reports suggest that a consensus may have been reached for Meranda to step down and return to her position as Deputy Speaker, paving the way for a new Speaker from Lagos West, with Hon. Setonji David emerging as the likely choice.

The push for a Speaker from Lagos West has gained traction amid concerns over regional balance in state leadership. With Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hailing from Lagos Central and Meranda also representing the same zone, key stakeholders have argued that the absence of Lagos West in a top leadership position could upset the political equilibrium. Given this, the mediation efforts have reportedly led to a strong recommendation for Hon. Setonji David from Badagry, a ranking member of the House, to take up the Speakership.

Insiders disclose that Meranda had contemplated resigning earlier when the House reconvened last Monday. However, the overwhelming show of support from lawmakers and Assembly staff made her hesitate. With the intervention of Akande, Osoba, and Akinyelure, she is now expected to step aside in the coming days to allow for a smooth transition.

As the situation continues to evolve, political observers are keenly watching how events unfold, with Hon. Setonji David from Badagry increasingly being positioned as the next Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.