APC Panel Shortlists Seven for Lagos Speaker as Meranda’s Exit Looms

The ongoing speakership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved, as top figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC) work towards a compromise. Sources indicate that both the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, might step aside to allow another lawmaker to take over the leadership of the House.

The intervention of APC heavyweights, including former governors Chief Bisi Akande (Osun), Segun Osoba (Ogun), and Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), has been instrumental in seeking a resolution. Acting on the directive of President Bola Tinubu, these party leaders were tasked with finding a political solution after the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) failed to resolve the impasse.

The crisis began on January 13, 2025, when 36 lawmakers removed Obasa as Speaker and installed Meranda, then Deputy Speaker, in his place. Lawmakers accused Obasa of poor leadership, high-handedness, abuse of office, and mismanagement, among other allegations. Obasa, who was in Atlanta, USA, at the time, has rejected his removal and insisted he remains the rightful Speaker.

Following a crucial meeting on Sunday at the Governor’s Lodge in Marina, which included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and GAC members, a panel has been tasked with selecting a new Speaker. A GAC member, Chief Muraina Taiwo, revealed that one of seven lawmakers from Lagos West is being considered for the role. The panel is expected to submit these names to President Tinubu, who will make the final decision.

It was also noted that selecting a Speaker from Lagos Central was deemed politically inappropriate, as Governor Sanwo-Olu hails from the same senatorial zone. Among the shortlisted lawmakers, sources suggest that David Setonji from Badagry is a strong contender due to his experience and seniority. Setonji, born in 1959, has been a member of the House since 2015 and currently serves as Chief Whip under Meranda’s leadership.

In addition to leadership changes, Obasa is expected to withdraw his legal case against the Assembly and Meranda, which challenges his impeachment. A senior APC insider confirmed that both Meranda and Obasa would be asked to vacate their positions, paving the way for a consensus candidate from Lagos West.

The GAC Chairman, Chief Tajudeen Olusi, acknowledged the ongoing mediation efforts, stating that the party is working to ensure stability within the House. He emphasized that a resolution will be announced once the panel concludes its deliberations.

With negotiations progressing, insiders believe an agreement could be finalized within a week, bringing an end to the speakership dispute in the Lagos Assembly.