PICTORIAL: Sanwo-Olu hosts new Lagos Speaker Meranda, pledges executive-legislative harmony

The Lagos State Governor reiterated the commitment of the Executive and Legislative branches to maintaining a cooperative relationship with the recent appointment of Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed Speaker Meranda and other principal officers at the Lagos House in Ikeja, expressing confidence in their collaborative efforts to uphold governance standards in the state.

Emphasizing the importance of alignment between the Executive and Legislative arms, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the goal of ensuring Lagos continues to excel in governance. The governor affirmed their dedication to building on past successes and striving to bring about positive changes across all sectors.

Recent developments in the Assembly, including the impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, set the stage for the meeting. In response to the impeachment, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, clarified the governor’s stance, emphasizing the legislature’s independence and citing constitutional provisions on the separation of powers.

Following allegations of misconduct, abuse of office, and financial mismanagement, Obasa was removed from his position. The decision reportedly garnered support from 90% of House members, signaling a significant shift in leadership. The Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko, was also suspended indefinitely, while Hon. Mojeed Fatai assumed the role of Deputy Speaker.