LAHA Crisis: Akande Panel Shortlists Setonji, Six Others as Meranda Set to Resign, Obasa to Withdraw Suit

By Dansu Peter  The protracted leadership crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved as a high-powered panel led by fo...

By Dansu Peter 

The protracted leadership crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved as a high-powered panel led by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande has shortlisted seven lawmakers for onward submission to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, report by Punch Newspaper reports this morning.  

Among the shortlisted candidates is Hon. Setonji David, a ranking member representing Badagry Constituency II. His inclusion signals a potential shift in the Assembly's leadership dynamics as the APC seeks to stabilize governance in the state legislature.  

The crisis, which erupted on January 13, 2025, saw the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, replaced by Mojisola Meranda, the then-deputy speaker. However, the political impasse has persisted, prompting intervention from key APC figures, including former governors Segun Osoba, Akinwunmi Ambode, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who convened at the Lagos State Governor’s Lodge to seek a resolution.  

Sources close to the discussions confirm that President Tinubu has mandated a seven-member shortlist, dominated by ranking lawmakers from Lagos West Senatorial District, to ensure fair representation and seniority.  

A member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Chief Muraina Taiwo, revealed that the shortlisted names would be presented to Tinubu, who will have the final say on the new Speaker.   

While the full list of seven lawmakers remains undisclosed, insiders indicate that Setonji David of Badagry Constituency II is among the frontrunners. A seasoned legislator who has been in the House since 2015, Setonji currently serves as Chief Whip and is regarded as one of the most experienced members from Lagos West.  

With a background in civil engineering and extensive political experience, his candidacy is being considered based on merit, seniority, and regional balance, as Lagos Central, which houses Governor Sanwo-Olu, is reportedly out of contention for the Speaker position.  

In a significant development, Mojisola Meranda is expected to resign, making way for a new Speaker. Similarly, Obasa is likely to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his removal, as the APC explores a political settlement to the crisis.  

The Punch's report says a top party source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that“Meranda will step down, Obasa will also step down, and the party will select a new Speaker from Lagos West." This move, the source added, is aimed at restoring stability and preventing further legal and political turmoil within the House.  

The APC leadership is expected to finalize its decision within the week, paving the way for a new Speaker who will be formally endorsed by the party and Governor Sanwo-Olu.  

As Lagosians await the final decision from President Tinubu in Abuja, all eyes remain on Setonji David and the six other shortlisted lawmakers, who may shape the future leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly.