Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Princess Mojisola Meranda, may be stepping down, paving the way for either David Setonji or Wale Rauf to take over. This development comes after prominent political figures, including former APC National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande, ex-Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and Chief Pius Akinyelure, intervened in the matter.
Meranda made history as the first female Speaker of the House on January 13, after Mudashiru Obasa’s removal due to allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and high-handedness. However, Obasa has challenged his removal in court, claiming that due process was not followed.
Sources reveal that key political figures met with principal officers and House members over the weekend, with another meeting expected soon. It’s speculated that Meranda may return to her former position as Deputy Speaker, while either David Setonji (Badagry 2) or Wale Rauf (Amuwo Odofin 2) could become the next Speaker.
Possible Successors:
- David Setonji: Currently the Chief Whip of the House, Setonji has been a lawmaker since 2015 and has a strong grassroots following.
- Wale Rauf: Elected in 2019, Rauf has built influence within the House and is considered a strong contender for the role.
The move is reportedly aimed at ensuring regional balance in state leadership, as both Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Meranda hail from Lagos Central, leaving Lagos West without a top-tier leadership position.