The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, widely regarded as the state’s highest political decision-making body, has officially endorsed the recent leadership change in the Lagos State House of Assembly, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape.
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On Monday, a total of 32 lawmakers out of the 40-member Lagos State House of Assembly voted in favor of impeaching the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa. This historic decision was reportedly fueled by allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and financial improprieties that emerged during his tenure as Speaker. The impeachment, carried out in line with constitutional provisions, highlighted the assembly's firm stance on accountability and good governance.
ÂFollowing the removal of Obasa, Mojisola Meranda, the Deputy Speaker representing Apapa Constituency 1, was unanimously elected by the lawmakers to serve as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Meranda’s election makes her the first female Speaker in the history of the Lagos State Assembly, a development that has been widely celebrated as a milestone for gender inclusivity and representation in the state’s political arena.
ÂAccording to a report by Western Post, the GAC not only supported the lawmakers’ decision to impeach Obasa but also gave its full endorsement to the leadership of Mojisola Meranda. The council’s blessing was seen as a critical step in solidifying the legitimacy of the leadership transition and ensuring stability within the assembly.
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Speaking to journalists shortly after meeting with the GAC, Mojisola Meranda expressed her gratitude to the council for its unwavering support and approval of the assembly’s decision. She stated that the lawmakers had sought the GAC’s guidance and were pleased to have received its blessings for the leadership change. Meranda assured the public of her commitment to steering the assembly towards legislative excellence and promoting policies that would benefit the citizens of Lagos State.
ÂThe allegations against the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, included financial mismanagement and statutory violations, which were thoroughly reviewed by the assembly members before the impeachment decision was finalized. This decisive action, according to political analysts, underscores the assembly's dedication to transparency and ethical governance.
ÂPrior to her election as Speaker, Mojisola Meranda served as the Assembly’s Chief Whip and Deputy Speaker. Her legislative experience and track record of public service have been praised by her colleagues and stakeholders across Lagos State.
ÂIn addition to the GAC’s endorsement, the Conference 57 of Local Government and Local Council Development Area Chairmen in Lagos State has congratulated Meranda on her historic election. The council chairmen, in a statement jointly signed by their Chairman, Alabi Kolade David, and Public Relations Officer, Olusesan Daini, lauded Meranda’s dedication, competence, and commitment to public service. They described her emergence as a reflection of Lagos State’s progressive ideals and its unwavering commitment to inclusive governance.
ÂThe council chairmen further pledged their unwavering support for Meranda’s leadership, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the assembly with distinction, foster meaningful development, and uphold the principles of democracy. They emphasized their readiness to collaborate with the new Speaker to achieve the shared goal of advancing the welfare and prosperity of the people of Lagos State.
