The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Lasbat Mojisola Meranda, has announced new principal officers following the dissolution of the former committee.
The plenary, which began at 11am had majority of the lawmakers representing various constituencies present.
The new appointments are: Hon. Temitope Adedeji, representing Ifako Ijaye 1 Constituency as Majority Leader; Hon. Richard Kasumu, representing Ikeja 2 Constituency, Deputy Majority Leader; Hon. David Setonji, representing Badagry 2 Constituency, Chief Whip and Hon. Semiu Okanlawon, representing Kosofe Constituency 1, Deputy Chief Whip.
While speaking during the plenary, the first female speaker, Meranda, pledged to “work tirelessly to uphold the principles of transparency, good governance, and other noble tenets that this noble House stands for.”
“Dear colleagues, we have a lot to do to achieve this vision. There is no stigmatisation among us. We are women, and that is where we derive the strength to take beautiful steps.
“The onus is therefore on us to focus on several key areas. Strengthening legislative independence will be a top priority, ensuring that our institutions remain robust and substance-driven.
“We will promote transparency and accountability in governance, ensuring that our actions are guided by the principles of integrity, fairness and justice.
“As we begin this new chapter, let us be reminded that we are not just lawmakers, but also leaders.
“We must lead by example, demonstrating the values of integrity, transparency and accountability that we expect from others.
“As Speaker, I commit to prioritising the needs of our constituents through you. We will work to ensure that their voices are heard, their concerns are addressed and their welfare is protected.”
Meranda assured her colleagues that her leadership would work with them towards making the state better.
“Be rest assured that we are all going to work together in this current commitment to achieve our lofty and abode vision for the state.”,she said.
Meranda also said she would listen to ideas, respond to concerns and work collaboratively with everyone to address the challenges in the state.
The new speaker also lawmakers to demonstrate leadership and service in order win the confidence of constituents.
Meanwhile, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, was absent.
Before his removal, Obasa was said to have been out of the country on vacation. It is not certain if he is still in Atlanta, United States, where sources at the assembly said he was having his vacation.
Obasa representing Agege Constituency 1, was removed by the majority members of the House on Monday over allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriations.
The former Speaker has not reacted to the allegations since his removal.
