In a significant move that could reshape the political landscape of Lagos State, Yomi Adelowo, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a seasoned Public Affairs Commentator, has officially thrown his weight behind the newly elected Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda. Adelowo’s endorsement, made during an exclusive interview with reporters in Ikeja, comes at a critical juncture as the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) convenes to determine the fate of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Adelowo praised Meranda’s vast political experience, pointing to her remarkable track record in public service and governance. A former Senior Special Assistant on Intervention and Inter-Governmental Relations in Apapa Local Government, as well as a former Supervisor for Health in the same local government, Meranda has long been immersed in the intricacies of politics. Her leadership roles in the Lagos State House of Assembly are even more impressive—having served as Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) during the 8th Assembly, Chairman of the House Committee on Establishment, Training, Pension, and Public Service, and Chief Whip of the 9th Assembly.
Her rise to the position of Deputy Speaker further cements her reputation as a seasoned and capable political figure, one who is poised to take on the significant challenges of her new role. Adelowo, who knows Meranda’s work ethic well, noted that her career is a testament to her ability to excel in demanding positions.
“Meranda’s rich and diverse background will undoubtedly make her a standout Speaker,” Adelowo affirmed. “Her experience as Personal Assistant to the SSA on Information Technology in Bola Tinubu’s administration, her work with the Surveyor-General’s office, and her leadership role at Worthline International Services speak volumes about her multifaceted expertise.”
Meranda’s political journey, however, extends beyond her public service roles. Adelowo highlighted her deep-rooted passion for creating change through political engagement, which has been a hallmark of her career. Having been part of the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD), the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and the APC, Meranda embodies the progressive values that are central to the APC’s mission. However, Adelowo cautioned that as she ascends to this pivotal role, she must remain steadfast in upholding the core principles of the APC.
“She has always been a progressive force,” Adelowo continued. “Her political journey has been one of continuous growth, and now, in her new role, the challenge is to remain true to the values of the APC while delivering on the promises of effective governance.”
Meranda’s commitment to education and self-improvement has also contributed to her success. She embarked on her educational journey at St. Charles Nursery and Primary School, followed by Randle Primary School and then Anglican Girls’ Grammar School. Her secondary education was completed at Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School in Surulere. Her academic background, which includes the attainment of the West African School Certificate (WASC), has played a crucial role in shaping her leadership abilities.
Meranda’s election as Speaker follows the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa in January, a move that has not been without controversy. While Obasa continues to contest his removal, the GAC remains engaged in closed-door deliberations to determine his future. The outcome of these discussions will have far-reaching implications for the political dynamics within the Lagos State House of Assembly, with many looking to Meranda’s leadership as a beacon of stability and progress.
As the GAC meets to chart Obasa’s fate, the political tide in Lagos is shifting, and with the backing of key APC figures like Adelowo, Mojisola Meranda’s Speakership looks set to shape the future of governance in the state.
PIONEER NEWS 