Political tensions are escalating in Nigeria’s commercial capital as revelations emerge of covert maneuvers to unseat the recently installed Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda. Sources close to the Assembly reveal sophisticated political machinations aimed at orchestrating her removal, barely a month after assuming office.
The power struggle centers around supporters of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was removed from his position on January 13, 2025. According to multiple sources within the Assembly, despite several failed attempts to dislodge Meranda from her position, Obasa’s camp remains determined to engineer his return to power through an intricate political strategy.
At the heart of this developing crisis is a complex plan involving the potential installation of an interim speaker from Lagos West, specifically targeting representation from the Ikeja constituency. This comes after an earlier approach to secure a candidate from Ifako-Ijaiye reportedly fell through when the proposed candidate declined the offer, choosing instead to maintain allegiance to the current leadership under Meranda.
The scheme, as outlined by sources familiar with the situation, involves a multi-phase approach where a temporary speaker would be installed, only to step down after a brief period, theoretically creating an opening for Obasa’s return. This interim arrangement would supposedly conclude with Obasa eventually making way for what his supporters describe as a “popular candidate.”
However, this political chess game has encountered significant resistance within the Assembly. Many lawmakers have publicly reaffirmed their support for Speaker Meranda, demonstrating a united front against what they perceive as external interference in the Assembly’s affairs. Their solidarity appears to be strengthening in the face of mounting pressure from various political quarters.
A particularly controversial aspect of the unfolding situation involves alleged involvement from federal authorities in Abuja. Speaking under condition of anonymity, a prominent APC chieftain expressed frustration at what they characterized as unnecessary federal meddling in state legislative matters. The attempt to secure clearance from Abuja at this stage of our democracy is concerning,” the source stated, highlighting growing tensions between state and federal interests in the matter.
The situation is further complicated by allegations of financial impropriety during Obasa’s tenure. Sources within the Assembly have raised concerns about previous leadership practices, including claims of unauthorized deductions from staff allowances affecting both junior staff and fellow lawmakers. These allegations have added another layer of complexity to the political crisis, with some Assembly members viewing attempts to reinstate the former speaker with increased skepticism.
The current political maneuvering has broader implications for governance in Lagos State, raising questions about legislative independence and the influence of external power brokers in state affairs. Political observers note that the outcome of this power struggle could significantly impact the relationship between the legislative and executive branches of government in Lagos State.
Despite the mounting pressure, Speaker Meranda’s supporters remain confident in her leadership capabilities and her mandate to guide the Assembly. They argue that the constant attempts to undermine her authority serve only to distract from important legislative business and the overall development agenda for Lagos State.
As this political drama continues to unfold, stakeholders across Lagos State are watching closely, aware that the resolution of this leadership crisis could have far-reaching implications for governance in Nigeria’s most economically significant state. The coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining whether the current leadership can maintain its position against what appears to be an orchestrated campaign for change.
The situation remains fluid, with both camps appearing to dig in for what could become a protracted political battle. What’s clear is that the stability of the Lagos State House of Assembly hangs in the balance, as does the future direction of legislative leadership in the state.
