In a historic turn of events, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda has been elected as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Her unanimous election, which took place on Monday, January 13, 2025, follows the impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa during a heated plenary session. This landmark decision ends a 46-year tradition of male leadership in the Lagos Assembly, heralding a new chapter in the state’s legislative history.
Everything To Know About Mojisola Meranda
Born on August 16, 1980, into a royal lineage, Meranda’s roots are steeped in tradition and public service. Her father, the late Chief Taoreed Lawal-Akapo, was a legislator and later the Ojora of Lagos, while her mother, Princess Muinat, hails from the Oniru royal family. Her brother, Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, is the reigning Oniru of Iru Kingdom.
From an early age, Meranda was interested in politics, attending ward meetings with her family at 18. Her political upbringing laid the foundation for her journey into public service, culminating in her latest groundbreaking achievement.
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Educational and Professional Milestones
Meranda’s educational journey reflects her commitment to excellence. She began at Randle Primary School before attending Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, where she earned her WASC in 1998. Initially pursuing law, she shifted focus to public administration, earning a diploma and a B.Sc. from Lagos State University in 2013.
Her academic pursuits didn’t stop there. Meranda holds a Master’s in Public and International Affairs (MPIA) from the University of Lagos and is currently pursuing a BA in Public Sector Management at the University of York, UK.
Professionally, her career began in 2003 as a Personal Assistant to Olumuyiwa Gbadegesin, a Senior Special Assistant in Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. She later served as Senior Special Assistant on Intervention and Intergovernmental Affairs at Apapa Local Government, followed by her appointment as Supervisory Councillor for Health.
Political Journey: From Constituency Representative to Speaker
MeMeranda entered theate House of Assembme in 20 presentinging Apapa Constituency I. Her legislative acumen and dedication to her constituency earned her re-election in 2019 and 2023.
She served as Chief Whip and chaired the House Committee on Women’s Affairs and Poverty Alleviation during her tenure. In 2023, she was elected Deputy Speaker, further solidifying her leadership role within the Assembly. Her election as Speaker in 2025 marks the pinnacle of her legislative career.
A vocal proponent of gender parity, Meranda has consistently called for greater representation of women in politics. Her election as Speaker is a testament to her belief in women’s capacity to lead and her commitment to dismantling barriers that hinder female participation in governance.
A Legacy of Impact
Meranda has championed numerous initiatives throughout her legislative career, including medical outreaches, water projects, and educational programs. Her focus on empowering widows, petty traders, and youths through skill acquisition programs underscores her commitment to improving the lives of her constituents.
Her leadership style is expected to emphasize inclusivity and accountability, setting a new standard for governance in Lagos.
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Commitment to Duty
In her acceptance speech, Meranda pledged her dedication to upholding the Constitution and serving Lagosians faithfully. “I affirm that I will be faithful as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly; that I will perform my functions honestly to the best of my ability, faithfully, and in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she declared.
A New Era for Lagos Politics
Mojisola Meranda’s election as Speaker is more than just a personal milestone; it is a transformative moment for Lagos and Nigeria at large. Her rise symbolizes a breakthrough in the fight for gender equality and offers a beacon of hope for aspiring female leaders.
As Lagosians await the unfolding of her tenure, expectations are high that she will deliver on her promises of inclusive governance, legislative innovation, and community development.
Stay tuned for further updates on Meranda’s agenda and the impact of her historic leadership on the Lagos State House of Assembly.