In a last-ditch effort to resolve the leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has tasked top figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC) with mediating the dispute…
According to The PUNCH, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside former governors Chief Bisi Akande (Osun), Chief Olusegun Osoba (Ogun), and Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), convened a crucial meeting at the Governor’s Lodge in Marina, Lagos, on Sunday. Other key attendees included members of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC), APC Lagos Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, and former state chairman Tunde Balogun.
As of late Sunday night, the meeting was still ongoing, with further deliberations expected between party leaders and Lagos lawmakers.
A source close to the discussions revealed that the focus was on resolving the power struggle between ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and current Speaker Mojisola Meranda.
“The meeting is currently in progress. Party leaders are planning another round of discussions with lawmakers to resolve the impasse,” the source disclosed.
Adeleke Orders Newly Sworn-In Chairmen, Councillors To Stay Away From LG Secretariats
“Obasa is pushing for a brief return as Speaker before voluntarily stepping down. However, some lawmakers fear that once he regains the seat, removing him will be difficult.
“Frustrated by the prolonged crisis, President Tinubu has deployed APC heavyweights to Lagos to negotiate a resolution,” the source added.
The Genesis of the Crisis
The turmoil began on January 13, 2025, when 36 lawmakers voted to oust Obasa as Speaker, replacing him with then-Deputy Speaker Meranda. Obasa has since contested his removal in a Lagos State High Court, arguing that the decision was made while the Assembly was in recess.
Possible Compromise: Meranda to Step Down for Setonji
Reports indicate that as part of a compromise brokered by APC leadership, Meranda may step down in favor of Setonji David, a lawmaker from Badagry.
A Presidency source confirmed ongoing negotiations, stating, “Yes, consultations are underway, and indications suggest she may step down.”
Another insider revealed that Tinubu has urged party leaders to ensure a balanced resolution that guarantees fair representation, particularly for Lagos West, which currently lacks a key leadership position in the state.
Get real-time News Updates on Our WHATSAPP channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9qtzXHwXbIyBGtjk2o
