Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, a Lagos-born politician, has emerged as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa.
Meranda, a seasoned lawmaker representing Apapa Constituency 1, has served in the Assembly since 2015. Her unanimous selection as Speaker on January 13, 2025, marks a significant milestone in her career and the history of the Lagos State Assembly.
Here are ten key details about the new Lagos Speaker:
1. Royal and Political Heritage
Mojisola Lasbat Meranda was born on August 16, 1980, into the royal families of Ojora, Aromire, Onitana, Oloto, and Oniru, inheriting a strong political lineage. Her late father, Chief T.A. Lawal Akapo, was a legislator and later became the Ojora of Lagos.
2. Educational Background
She attended Randle Primary School, Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School. Meranda earned a degree in Public Administration from Lagos State University in 2013 and later pursued further studies at the University of Lagos.
3. Professional Experience
Before entering politics, Meranda worked as a personal assistant in the Lagos State government and held private sector roles, including as a procurement manager at Cirrus Nigeria Limited.
4. Political Career
Starting as a senior special assistant at Apapa Local Government, she later became a supervisory councillor for health. She was first elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015 and has been re-elected twice.
5. Legislative Contributions
Meranda has focused on amending outdated laws rather than merely sponsoring new bills. She has implemented various constituency projects, including medical outreaches and educational support initiatives.
6. Advocacy for Women’s Rights
A vocal advocate for gender equality, she challenges stereotypes and champions greater representation of women in politics, emphasizing their equal capabilities in leadership roles.
7. Community Development Projects
She has initiated water projects, equipped schools, supported petty traders and widows, and facilitated training programs for mechanics within her constituency.
8. Leadership Roles in the Assembly
She served as the Chief Whip of the ninth assembly and is one of only four women in the current 40-member Lagos Assembly.
9. Personal Life
Meranda is married and enjoys reading and traveling. Her resilience and determination have been evident throughout her political journey.
10. Historic Achievement
On January 13, 2025, she was unanimously chosen as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, becoming the first woman to hold the position.
Meranda’s rise to Speaker reflects her dedication to public service and her commitment to fostering inclusive and impactful leadership in Lagos State.
