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  • Police restore Meranda’s security detail, explain withdrawal

    Police restore Meranda’s security detail, explain withdrawal

    The Lagos Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Moshood Jimoh has confirmed that the earlier withdrawal of police protection from Lagos Speaker Mojisola Meranda was as a result of personnel audit, dismissing insinuations that the withdrawal was politically motivated.

    CP Jimoh made this clarification at a briefing, reiterating that there was an ongoing personnel and arms audit by the police across the country.

    The security detail of Merand at her residence and escorts withdrew Thursday morning causing controversy.

    Her detail were withdrawn just as those of former speaker, Mudashiru Obasa were reinstated and followed him to the House of the Assembly complex.

    According to CP Jimoh, Obasa wrote to the police alleging threat to his life and requested armed protection.

    He reemphasised that the police have maintained neutrality and stayed out of politics in the Assembly leadership issue, urging the public not to drag the service into political matters.

    “There is an ongoing Police Personnel Audit of our personnel attached to eminent personalities, individuals and groups, and their legal states.

    “This is a statutory laid down procedure, which is not limited to Lagos State. The same practice is going on in various commands across the country without any issues. This is to ensure that the police personnel are accounted for, including their firearms and other crime fighting equipment in their possession.

    “We are doing this to ensure that they are on their duty post and that their firearms and equipment under their custody is not misused.

    “This exercise will equally avail the command the opportunity to discover where police personnel are posted without approval, and those that are on illegal duties and unapproved duty posts, so that we can withdraw those on unapproved duty posts, illegal duty and invalid approvals, and redeploy them on duty to police posts, police stations, police divisions and area commands to provide security and safety for all residents and visitors,” he said.

    The police chief explained that with less than 18,000 police strength to secure more than 20 million people, there was need for more personnel to be at police posts, stations, divisions and the command for the safety and adequate protection of life and property of all the people of the state.

    “The ongoing police personnel audit is done in public interest and not with any consideration except for the safety of all in the state.

    “As we speak, the audit of the police personnel attached to Hon. Mojisola Meranda has been completed and the form-armed police personnel attached to her from the State Police Command have been returned back to her for her protection.

    Read Also: We reject Obasa in totality – Lagos lawmakers

    “It is pertinent to state that the ongoing police personnel audit has been on for several days now, and prominent personalities and individuals have been complying with the process. The exercise, once again, is not aimed or targeted at any individuals.

    “For prominent personalities or business executives that have no valid approval, or having policemen that are with them under unapproved beats, they are implored to revalidate their approval for those with invalid approval, or apply afresh to the Inspector General of Police for their request to be approved without any delay.

    “However, for those whose police personnel are still undergoing the audit process with us, the outcome of the audit will enable the next line of action to be taken by them. I want to send a note of warning that any prominent persons or individuals without approval for police deployment to them, their personnel will be withdrawn throughout the state.

    “The Special Protection Unit Department at the Force Headquarters have been mandated to provide security coverage for every Nigerian needing police protection in the country, and will henceforth provide deployment of police personnel for guard duties and personal protection will be centrally done throughout the country.

    “In the ongoing personnel audit of some personalities in Lagos, approval for their police personnel attached to them cannot be traced and verified, but they can still apply to the Inspector General of Police for the approval of their request and application of their police need.

    “This will be treated on merit as stipulated in the Police Regulations of Guards and Protection of VIPs, Non-VIPs, and other individuals,” he stressed.

    On Obasa, the CP said: “There was application from Hon. Mudashiru Obasa on threats to his life and that of his family in the last few days. It was on the basis of that application that police personnel were approved to him for that purpose only.

    “The Lagos State Police Command is not aware or in the know of how and where the office of the Speaker of the Lagos State Assembly was broken into. The Lagos State Police Command is neutral in the whole episode and will continue to do so to ensure law and order and public safety and security throughout the length and breadth of Lagos State.

    “This, we will not be tired of doing at the Lagos State Police Command. I hereby appeal for calm, for everyone to go about their lawful duty and other responsibilities peacefully.

    “The police deployment at the Lagos State House of Assembly has been reinforced and fortified with more Mobile Police Force (PMF) personnel sent. Counter-terrorism units are equally being increased and sent there.

    “Special protection units are equally attached there. The Bomb Squad and the Conventional Police Team and Detectives were increased and sent to the State House of Assembly to fortify the security. We also stationed Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) and other vehicular patrol teams to prevent any untoward incidents.

    “Whatsoever has been done in the Lagos State House of Assembly today, the Lagos State Police Command is not in the know. Police do not have responsibility in the hallowed chamber of the House of Assembly. We are limited to providing adequate security coverage for the House of Assembly and not to be involved in any other matters of politics inside the premises, except if there is complaint that borders on crimes and safety.

    “The Lagos State Police Command will continue to be neutral and not to get involved in politics at whatever level. Security situation in the House of Assembly is firmly under control and normalcy has been fully restored.

    “Lagosians are enjoined to go about their lawful businesses and other responsibilities without fear as the police are completely resolved to maintain law and order throughout the state, to engender public safety, public security,” he added.

  • Meranda: I’m still Lagos Assembly Speaker

    Meranda: I’m still Lagos Assembly Speaker

    • 27 lawmakers deny defection to LP

    Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has denied reports claiming she has resigned from her position.

    Meranda’s Chief Press Secretary, Segun Ajiboye, debunked the rumour yesterday.

    The Nation observes that an unsigned circular dated February 17 has been trending for two days, with the content claiming Meranda has resigned.

    Recall members of the House of Assembly have passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Meranda, dismissing rumours of her possible resignation.

    There was tension in the hallowed chambers yesterday, as lawmakers expressed solidarity with Meranda, insisting that they wanted her to remain as the Speaker.

    Thirty-six pro-Meranda lawmakers in the 40-member house, who passed a vote of confidence in the Speaker, said a plot to make the new Speaker resign from her office for the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, would not stand.

    Reacting, Ajiboye said: “It is a lie from the pit of hell. There is no truth in the story. I am doing my work as the CPS. ‘’The Speaker is her office as we speak and everybody is talking about his or her business. We do not know where the story is coming from. The Speaker has not resigned and there is no plan for that.”

    Twenty-seven members of the assembly yesterday dismissed rumours suggesting that they had left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join Labour Party (LP).

    The defection rumour is coming amid the crisis rocking the assembly.

    The crisis deepened, following moves by ousted Speaker Obasa to return to the house.

    Read Also: Obasa sues Lagos Assembly, Meranda over removal

    The Nation reports that Obasa, who was removed by the majority of the lawmakers on January 13, approached a court last week to seek redress.

    He took the assembly and Meranda to a Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, claiming the lawmakers were wrong to have removed him when the house was in recess.

    Reacting to the defection rumour, a statement signed by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, Otunba Ogundipe Olukayode, said: ‘’Lagos State House of Assembly wishes to categorically debunk the malicious and unfounded publication alleging that 27 members of the assembly are planning to defect from the ruling party to the opposition LP.

    “This publication is false, misleading and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.

  • Group seeks protection for Lagos Assembly speaker Meranda amid leadership crisis

    Group seeks protection for Lagos Assembly speaker Meranda amid leadership crisis

    • …faults alleged plan to reinstate ex-speaker Obasa

    The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has called for the protection of democracy and the independence of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) following the recent leadership change that removed Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa as Speaker and brought in Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday, CHSR President Comrade Alex Omotehinse stressed the importance of an unfettered legislative process and urged all stakeholders to respect the decision of the majority members of the House.

    “It would amount to a declaration of war on democracy to continue to precipitate a needless crisis that impedes legislative business and undermines governance in Lagos State,” Omotehinse said.

    He also condemned attempts to reinstate Obasa, questioning why efforts were being made to impose him back into office despite Meranda’s lawful and procedural selection.

    The CHSR maintained that the Lagos Assembly, as a body accountable to the electorate, must operate without external interference. 

    The group urged lawmakers to support Speaker Meranda, emphasizing that her leadership would foster inclusivity, transparency, and democratic principles.

    “Being the first woman to hold this position in over five decades, her emergence is a positive step towards gender inclusivity in governance,” Omotehinse added.

    He also warned against any attempts to undermine the democratic process by imposing Obasa as “a perpetual and untouchable speaker,” describing such efforts as an assault on the collective will of Lagosians.

    Read Also: Meranda calls for exchange programme between Lagos, Swedish parliaments

    While expressing satisfaction that legislative activities had resumed after weeks of uncertainty, CHSR pledged to continue monitoring the situation. The group urged Meranda to remain focused and not be distracted by opposition forces attempting to upturn the assembly’s decision.

    CHSR also demanded that “LAHA members be allowed to exercise unfettered freedom in conducting legislative business! 

    “The speaker chosen by the majority of members must be allowed to preside over the business of the house without intimidation or harassment!!

    “Democracy must not be trampled or surrendered!!!”

    The group advocated for safeguarding democracy and preserving the integrity of the Lagos Assembly, reaffirming its commitment to holding the government accountable to the people.

  • Meranda calls for exchange programme between Lagos, Swedish parliaments

    Meranda calls for exchange programme between Lagos, Swedish parliaments

    The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly,  Mojisola Lasbat Meranda yesterday called for an exchange programme between the Swedish and Lagos parliaments.

    Read Also: 2027: Atiku, Tambuwal, Imoke visit Obasanjo, hold close-door meeting

    She made the call whrn the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria,  Mrs Hahn-England, visited her office.

    The Speaker, who maintained that both Nigeria and Sweden have always had robust business relationship, urged the diplomat to ensure that more Swedish businesses come into Nigeria.

  • Making me Lagos Speaker the right decision, Meranda tells colleagues

    Making me Lagos Speaker the right decision, Meranda tells colleagues

    Lagos Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has expressed gratitude to colleagues for electing her to lead the Assembly.

    She conveyed her appreciation during a courtesy visit by WOMANIFESTO, a platform advocating for women’s rights in Nigeria.

    Speaker Meranda emphasised the significance of women’s empowerment, urging the delegation to partner with the Assembly. 

    She acknowledged the trust her colleagues have placed in her, saying, “There is a saying that if you empower a woman, you empower a nation. believe my colleagues made the right decision in electing me to lead them.

    ” In this 10th Assembly, we are only four women  among 36 men. For them to have entrusted me with this leadership role, I am truly grateful.”

    Read Also: Meranda’s experience, education, family background will not allow her derail – APC chieftain

    She assured colleagues and the delegation of commitment to delivering impactful leadership, saying, “I sincerely appreciate my colleagues for their belief in me and their support over the past few weeks. I have promised myself not to disappoint them.” 

    Speaker Meranda also urged WOMANIFESTO to collaborate with the Assembly in advancing policies that benefit Nigerian women and girls. 

    Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Babatunde Okanlawon, the lawmaker representing Kosofe Constituency 01, commended the WOMANIFESTO delegation and urged them to support Speaker Meranda’s leadership.

  • Rt. Hon. Meranda is here to stay

    Rt. Hon. Meranda is here to stay

    The story of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the first female speaker in the Lagos Assembly, is one that typifies the phrase, ‘royalty meets governance.’ It’s no news that Meranda is from a royal home that has her father from the Ojora royal family and mother from the Oniru royal family. Neither is it news that she is the immediate younger sister to the current Oniru of Iru land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal.

    Read Also: FG threatens to take over incomplete Lagos-Ibadan expressway sections April

    However, what many do not know until her emergence is her magnanimity, humility and philanthropy traits.  In the same vein, it is unknown to many that Rt. Hon. Meranda’s emergence is coming from a place of worth and competence. As one, who never had issues with the former speaker while she held the position of the Deputy Speaker nor contested for the position after the speaker was impeached, it becomes worrisome to many how she emerged. Some argued that her emergence was influenced by the powers that be but investigation has proven that despite being the immediate younger sister to the Oniru of Iru land, Meranda has achieved popularity and deposited confidence in the consciousness of other lawmakers with her smart, intelligent and brilliant mien. Her elder brother has repeatedly noted that he has no business with the activities in the state assembly as he’s busy with the development of Iru land, hence he has no hand in either her emergence nor her running of the house of assembly activities since her emergence in January 2025. Meanwhile, Rt. Hon. Meranda has enjoyed unwavering support and backing from the female folks across the state. Aside from her dedication to women, widows, children and youths’ causes, her emergence as the first female speaker in the Lagos Assembly since the inauguration

  • The Meranda revolution

    The Meranda revolution

    Two Mondays ago, the curtains were drawn on the political career of Hon Mudashiru Obasa. By the time of his impeachment on January 13, he was nearly two years into his third term as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, having been elected speaker first in 2015. By the time of his impeachment, too, he had no lawmaker or any godfather left in his corner. He had alienated everyone alienable: the governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), which is the highest decision-making organ of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and most portentously of all, his colleagues in the legislature. He had no friends left, and it is doubtful whether he even had any admirers left, except a few roughnecks. Hon Mojisola Meranda, who was elected speaker in his stead, was the immediate beneficiary of the legislative putsch. But it was clear she did not lead the revolt, nor had the capacity to inspire its ideological direction were such required for its success.

    So, by and large, Lagos has in its hands the Meranda revolution, an opportunistic movement that capitalised audaciously on the numberless misdeeds of Hon Obasa, barely a month and some few weeks after he in turn led some sort of a second revolt against the governor. In 2023, he had got the assembly to turn down some 17 of Mr Sanwo-Olu’s 39 nominees for the state cabinet. And last November, he got his colleagues decked out melodramatically like the Cosa Nostra, as they humiliated the governor before and during the 2025 Budget presentation. At the same occasion, he embarked on a lengthy harangue of the governor and other dissenters. His cup full, and the GAC and just about everybody else livid, the powers that be kicked Hon Obasa out during his vacation in the United States (US). He will of course return, but only as a floor member of the legislature, considerably deflated and chastened. The manner of his rancorous politics and open animosity to the governor unfortunately set the stage for the colour and texture of the Meranda revolution.

    Having taken the oath of office, and following the ‘gross misconduct’ of the disfavoured former speaker, Hon Meranda, the new speaker, soon embarked on visits to the power centres of Lagos, beginning with the powerful GAC, and following up with a courtesy call on Mr Sanwo-Olu. A day after the putsch, she and the assembly’s principal officers met with the GAC at the State House, Marina, ostensibly to brief them about the Obasa impeachment, and to secure their blessings. Emerging from the meeting later, she claimed to have received the needed endorsement. Last Monday, she and the principal officers finally visited the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, where she called for the alignment of the two arms of government, the executive and the legislature. The governor could not agree more on the need for alignment and rebalancing of the relationship of the two arms.

    Read Also: Obasa, Lagos Assembly differ over his impeachment

    It was important that the Meranda revolution abandoned the legislative belligerence of the past few years under the insufferable speaker who strangely began to see both the executive arm and his colleagues as minions to be ridden roughshod over. But, surely, there are better, cleverer and more mature ways of carrying out the same mission of resetting relationships. The visits, though clearly well-intentioned, should have come a little later than they did, and should have been called in different circumstances. The party, of which the GAC and the governor are members, should have been made to call a high-powered meeting to be attended by all the relevant officials. At the meeting, pledges would have been made without any condescension or airs, and key leaders prompted to make soothing and placatory remarks after a closed-door session.

    Unfortunately, by visiting the governor and meeting with the GAC, Hon Meranda and her team gave the impression of eager subordination to the powers that be, even if that was not her intention. Hon Obasa turned the legislature into an opposition army within an army, and managed in a subtle, if not actually sublime, manner to beguile the public into viewing the assembly as a model, independent and bold legislature. He overplayed his hand, partly because he lacked the subtlety, depth, altruism and most importantly character to inspire and lead an independent and courageous assembly. He saw himself transcending the legislature itself as well as every other organ of government in the state, not to say every other party leader, while in the same breath indulging in Levantine luxury fit only for a monarch – all this in a democracy. It is understandable that Hon Meranda wishes to repudiate such hubristic aloofness, but she has been unable in her first few giddy weeks since the putsch to dispel the impression that she is ingratiating.

    Hon Obasa was too big to need political tacticians and bold and brilliant advisers; Hon Meranda, given her suspect and awkward visits so far, clearly needs even more brilliant and bolder tacticians and advisers than her predecessor. It is important that the Lagos House of Assembly should be the pacesetter in Nigeria in the midst of a depressing field of spineless Houses of Assembly all over the country. Hon Obasa couldn’t give what he didn’t have; it remains to be seen what stuff Hon Meranda is made of. Indications so far are that she may enact many more awkward moments ahead. Yet, even in a legislature dominated by one party, it should still be possible for a farsighted speaker and competent principal officers to lead the Assembly with firmness, even-handedness and fairness in such a way as to raise legislative standards in Lagos and make it nonpareil.

  •  Ex-Commissioner lauds emergence of Meranda as new Lagos speaker

     Ex-Commissioner lauds emergence of Meranda as new Lagos speaker

    The immediate past Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture in Lagos State, Pharm. (Mrs.) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf congratulated Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda on her emergence as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    In a statement, Akinbile-Yussuf described Meranda’s emergence as a landmark achievement that marks a significant moment not only for Meranda herself but also for women in leadership across the region.

    The former commissioner hailed Meranda’s accomplishment as a testament to her dedication, resilience, and commitment to serving the people of Lagos State.

    Read Also: Your impeachment followed due process, Lagos lawmakers reply Obasa

    The statement read in part: “Your well-deserved milestone is a testament to your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the service of Lagos State and its people,” she remarked.

    Akinbile-Yussuf emphasized the importance of Meranda’s election as a breakthrough for women in governance, describing it as an inspiring example for future generations of women who aspire to leadership roles.

    “This achievement is not just a win for you, Speaker Meranda, but for all women aspiring to break the glass ceiling in politics and public service. Your leadership will undoubtedly pave the way for transformative governance, visionary strides, and groundbreaking accomplishments,” she stated.

  • APC chieftain rallies support for Lagos Speaker Meranda

    APC chieftain rallies support for Lagos Speaker Meranda

    Hon. Bamidele Lateef Atoyebi, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Apapa Ward 1, has called on party members to rally behind Hon. Mojisola Meranda, the newly inaugurated Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    Speaking in Lagos, Atoyebi emphasised the importance of unity within the party to ensure the Speaker’s success. 

    “I am calling on all members of our great party to support the indefatigable brand-new Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda. There is power and success in unity. If we work in one accord, she will achieve great feats for Lagos and our party,” he said.

    Atoyebi also highlighted the 44-year-old Speaker’s impressive track record, including her tenure as Deputy Speaker and Chief Whip in the ninth Assembly. 

    He praised her philanthropic contributions and leadership skills, asserting, “Women possess natural leadership abilities. I believe Hon. Meranda will excel in office and lead with greatness.”

    Read Also: Amotekun vows to prevent bandits’ infiltration into southwest

    Rise of Mojisola Meranda

    Hon. Mojisola Meranda’s political journey began with her tenure as a dedicated legislator and advocate for community development. 

    A member of the APC, Meranda rose steadily through the ranks, serving as Chief Whip and Deputy Speaker before her historic election as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    Her emergence marks a significant milestone, making her one of the few women to hold such a prestigious position in Lagos politics. 

    Known for her pragmatic approach, Meranda is celebrated for championing policies on gender inclusion and grassroots development.

    Her ascendancy reflects the growing influence of women in Nigerian politics, a testament to her hard work and the party’s confidence in her leadership.

  • APC advises new Lagos Assembly Speaker, Meranda

    APC advises new Lagos Assembly Speaker, Meranda

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has advised the new Speaker of the state’s House of Assembly, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, to discharge her duties diligently and conscientiously.

    The APC Spokesman, Mr Seye Oladejo,  gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Tuesday in Lagos.

    Oladejo urged Meranda to do her best to build confidence in the  House and meet  the expectations of the people.

    Oladejo said: “We want to congratulate the new speaker on her well deserved election.

    “She needs no reminder that she’s first among equals, hence the need to remain a team player and maintain the cohesion , confidence, mutual respect and understanding that brought her to office.

    “It is imperative to uphold and remain loyal to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which she swore to.

    “She must remain committed to democratic principles as regards the fulfillment of the social contract with the good people of Lagos State for which our dear party, the APC, is well known.”

    The spokesman, however, said that the party had no doubt that Meranda, the first female speaker of the House, would deliver on this mandate and make the leadership and members of APC proud.

    “As she rightly expressed on a number of occasions, a good working relationship with the executive is a prerequisite for success and in the overall interest of all and sundry,” Oladejo added.

    NAN recalls that the erstwhile speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa (APC-Agege 1), a sixth-term lawmaker, was removed by lawmakers on Jan. 13.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu to Meranda: we will work together

    Thirty-two (32) out of the 40 lawmakers, at an emergency plenary, impeached Obasa via voice votes, over alleged gross misconduct.

    The assembly subsequently elected and swore-in Deputy Speaker, Meranda (APC-Apapa I) to replace Obasa, while Mr Fatai Adebola (APC- Ibeji-Lekki I) was elected as the Deputy Speaker.

    Meanwhile, Meranda, on Monday led her team of new principal officers of the House on a courtesy visit to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Ikeja.

    Meranda said the visit provided an opportunity to reaffirm the Assembly’s commitment to maintaining a harmonious working relationship with the executive arm of government.

    (NAN)