By DAYO ADESULU
David Setonji or Wale Rauf Poised to Take Over Leadership
Lagos, Nigeria – The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Princess Mojisola Meranda, may step down as part of an ongoing political negotiation, with David Setonji or Wale Rauf likely to assume the position.
This potential shift follows the intervention of prominent political figures, including:
✅ Chief Bisi Akande – Former APC National Chairman & ex-Governor of Osun State
✅ Aremo Olusegun Osoba – Former Ogun State Governor
✅ Chief Pius Akinyelure – Chairman, Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited
Meranda’s Historic Tenure and Legal Battle Over Leadership
Meranda made history on January 13 as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly after the removal of Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and high-handedness. However, Obasa has challenged his removal in court, claiming due process was not followed.
Amid ongoing political negotiations, sources confirm that an initial meeting was held over the weekend, with another high-level discussion expected soon.
Why a Leadership Change Is Underway
The possible removal of Meranda is reportedly driven by regional representation concerns. Currently:
- Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos Central)
- Speaker Mojisola Meranda (Lagos Central)
This leaves Lagos West without a major leadership position. Since Obasa hails from Lagos West, political stakeholders are pushing for his replacement to come from the same district.
Who Could Be the Next Speaker?
👤 David Setonji (Badagry 2)
- Current Chief Whip of the House
- Serving as a lawmaker since 2015
👤 Wale Rauf (Amuwo Odofin 2)
- Serving in the House since 2019
Both candidates are seen as strong contenders to balance power representation in Lagos politics.
Lawmakers Show Support for Meranda Amid Uncertainty
Despite the ongoing leadership tussle, 36 out of 40 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda on Monday, February 17, reaffirming their support for her leadership.
However, the House adjourned indefinitely, leaving room for further political manoeuvring.
What’s Next?
With negotiations still underway, all eyes are on the Lagos State Assembly as political stakeholders decide its next Speaker.
