The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has resigned from office, bringing an abrupt end to her historic tenure as the first female speaker of the state legislature.
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Meranda announced her resignation at plenary on Monday in Ikeja, stating that she took the decision to preserve the integrity of the Assembly and put an end to the lingering crisis that had gripped the House since her election.
“I am not a quitter; however, I took the decision in order to save this legislative institution from further unnecessary conflicts and embarrassment,” she said.
Her resignation comes amid ongoing political turmoil following the impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa in January over alleged misconduct. Obasa, who had legally challenged his removal, made a dramatic return to the Assembly complex last Thursday, insisting that he was never officially removed from office.
Earlier on Monday, APC State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi held a crucial meeting with both Meranda and Obasa, alongside lawmakers loyal to both camps, in an attempt to resolve the crisis.
Despite her short-lived tenure of 49 days, Meranda expressed gratitude for the support she received, highlighting the significance of her role in breaking gender barriers in Lagos politics.
“I made history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and I value and cherish the solidarity freely given to me,” she said.
Following her announcement, lawmakers took turns to commend her leadership, describing her as a “hero of democracy” for choosing stability over political strife.
With Meranda’s exit, all eyes are now on the Lagos Assembly as it navigates its next chapter in an already turbulent legislative session.