• Lawmakers bid her farewell
By Sunday Ani
The crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly appears to have given way to peace with the resignation of the Speaker, Mojisola Meranda and the return of the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.
In what many saw as a surprise and unexpected move, Meranda, after 49 days in office, resigned as Speaker of the state legislature, following the intervention of party leaders in the ongoing leadership crisis.
In her resignation speech during yesterday’s plenary, Meranda expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, emphasising her commitment to the institution.
“I will not depart from what my father taught me. I resign as Speaker after careful consideration. I am a good student of political history, and I must protect this institution. I have made history as the first female Speaker of this Assembly. I am grateful for your support,” she said.
Lawmakers took turns to commend Meranda’s leadership after Aro Moshood representing Ikorodu 2 had moved a motion under personal explanation to shower encomium on the first female speaker in the state.
“Under your leadership, this House witnessed a renewed welfare of the lawmakers. I thank you for keeping to time during the plenary session,” said Moshood.
In his comment, Ladi Ajomale (Oshodi/Isolo 2), said the lawmakers were proud of Meranda, adding that her short stay as Speaker would never be forgotten in the history of the House.
Gbolahon Ogunleye (Ikorodu 1) said: “I thank Speaker Meranda for the welfare of lawmakers during the short time she piloted the affairs of the House.”
He eulogised the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their role during the leadership crisis.
Wale Rauf (Amuwo-Odofin 2) said the unity during her stay as Speaker showed that she could lead without rancour.
Femi Saheed (Kosofe 2) said: “You have shown that this is the time to focus on the women’s gender.
“You have led us with openness, humility and transparency. We are proud of your leadership. You have shown empathy to us and you carried us along in everything you did.”
Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho 1) said: “Today makes 49 days you were elected Speaker of this House. Your leadership prowess was displayed during the short stay in power.
“Despite huge intimidation, you stood your ground and carried us along in your leadership. I congratulate and celebrate you.”
Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi/Isolo 1 ), said: “You are a visionary leader. We know your unwavering commitment to our party. Your leadership success to this House will always be remembered. You showed us love. I want to thank all lawmakers that God will continue to protect us and our family.”
Fatai Mojeed (Ibeju Lekki 2), said: “You always consult before you make a decision. Within the 49 days, you have been able to settle all debts and we appreciate your leadership.”
Also, Setonji David (Badagry 2), said: “You have endeared yourself to all of us. May God continue to promote you.”
Abiodun Tobun (Epe 1), in his remarks, said: “Lagosians and residents are behind you. Members and staff were behind, so you are a hero of democracy. You are a winner. One with God, fears nobody. You are going places in Nigerian politics. You stood your ground and you retreated when it became necessary.”
Temitope Adewale, said: “In 49 days, you have restored confidence in me as a lawmaker. You have given me peace I never witnessed in one and a half years. You restored the spirit of comradeship and friendship in us. I am happy to celebrate you as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly.
“Yesterday, we saw the strength in unity, friendship and we never betrayed ourselves. My dear colleagues, this is not the end. This is Tinubu’s House, don’t let us lose hope. We have shown the world the character we are made of. If Tinubu is in this House as a lawmaker, he will do the same thing we did.”
Gbolahon Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2), said: “It is part of your record as the first female Speaker. You have the quality of leadership awareness. Only a powerful leader can foresee what may be coming against him. We are very proud of you.
“You did very well. We are politicians, the public may not know how we are wired. The party is supreme. We do not run against the course of our party. God almighty will protect you and all that are in this chamber.”
Bonu Solomon (Badagry I), said: “We have seen the changes in leadership. We all love you and believe you will rise higher.”
Subur Oluwa could not hold his emotion as he broke down in tears appreciating Meranda’s leadership style.
Abiodun Orekoya described her as a woman who led as a mother, while Tijani Surajudeen commended her demonstration of good leadership.
Deputy Whip, Sani Okanlawon, recognised her capacity and courage, highlighting her contributions to staff welfare and governance.
Desmond Elliot, overwhelmed with emotion, also shed tears during the farewell tributes.
Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa II) acknowledged her groundbreaking achievement as the first female Speaker. He said: “In 49 days, you shattered the glass ceiling. You brought peace. The party is supreme.”
To reflect the new development in the House, there was a minor leadership reshuffle. Sani Okanlawon (Ifako-Ijaiye) stepped down as Deputy Chief Whip. David Setonji resigned as Chief Whip and returned as Deputy Chief Whip. Richard Kasumu retained his position as Deputy Majority Leader, while Adewale Temitope remained the Majority Leader. Fatal Mojeed also resigned as Deputy Speaker and returned as the Chief Whip.
Following her resignation, Meranda was reappointed as Deputy Speaker of the 10th Assembly.