On Monday, Mojisola Meranda was officially sworn in as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. This transition follows the removal of former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and signals a new chapter for the Assembly.
Meranda, who was warmly accompanied by her fellow lawmakers to her new office, stood in solidarity with her colleagues, though Obasa was notably absent from the occasion. After the formal ceremony, the legislators gathered for a group photo, showing their united support for Meranda’s leadership.
In a heartfelt display of approval, the lawmakers chanted, “Madam, continue your work; your work is appealing to us. You are the Speaker, you are the Speaker, you are the Speaker.” They further encouraged her with the words, “Speak for Lagos. Continue with your work.”
Following the ceremony, the Speaker and her colleagues took part in a prayer session to mark the start of her tenure. The event was significant, especially amidst claims by Obasa that his impeachment was unconstitutional and lacked due process.
To ensure a smooth transition and maintain order, security at the Lagos State House of Assembly has been stepped up. A notice issued by Omotayo Adekemi, on behalf of Acting Clerk Taiwo Ottun, required all staff and legislative aides to present valid identification cards to access the premises. The notice read, “All staff members and legislative aides must present valid identity cards to enter the House. Anyone without an ID card will be denied entry. We appreciate your cooperation.”
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state. Police Commissioner Ishola Olawale stated that while the police would not interfere with activities inside the Assembly, they would ensure peace outside the premises and throughout Lagos. “It is our responsibility to ensure calmness across the state,” he said.