The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has pledged to maintain a smooth line of communication with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
With an agenda different from what her predecessor prosecuted, she said she would lead the House to collaborate with other arms of government to achieve the vision of a “Greater Lagos.”
She said, “The synergy between us and other arms of government is crucial for good governance and democratic development. To achieve this, we must commit to maintaining an open line of communication with the Executive, led by Mr. Governor (Babajide Sanwo-Olu), fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. By doing so, we stand united to ensure that our vision aligns with that of the Executive for a better state.”
Meranda, who presided over her first session as Speaker on Friday, said this as she announced the appointment of new principal officers to steer the affairs of the House.
The Lagos Speaker named Temitope Adedeji, representing Ifako/Ijaye Constituency 1, as the Majority Leader, while Richard Kasunmu, representing Ikeja Constituency 2, was appointed Deputy Majority Leader. David Setonji assumed the role of Chief Whip, with Ganiyu Sanni, representing Kosofe Constituency 1, as Deputy Chief Whip.
The Speaker also announced the composition of the Selection Committee, which she will chair. Members include Deputy Speaker Fatai Mojeed (Ibeju Lekki Constituency 1), Majority Leader Temitope Adedeji, Chief Whip David Setonji, and Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa Constituency 2).
In her address, Meranda expressed gratitude to her colleagues for entrusting her with the leadership of the 10th Assembly, pledging to work diligently in service to the state.
Her words, “I am truly grateful for the confidence you have placed in me, and I pledge to work tirelessly to uphold the virtues of transparency and good governance that this House stands for.
“Today, we are reminded of the shared responsibilities that rest on our shoulders as representatives of the good people of Lagos State. We are elected to voice their concerns, aspirations, and needs. We are the guardians of this collective trust, and we must work to justify the faith they have placed in us.
“As we begin this new chapter in the history of our Assembly, I want to assure you that our administration will focus on working together for a better Lagos. We will work harmoniously with other arms of government to ensure the seamless delivery of democracy’s dividends to Lagosians, who are our core focus.
“Therefore, we will work to ensure that, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or religion, every Lagos resident is proud to say, ‘I am a Lagosian.’
“We will prioritise leaving the past behind and forging ahead. We will not dwell on past controversies or disagreements. Instead, we will focus on the great and pressing task ahead, which is delivering better services to the people of Lagos.
“We will strive to create a more inclusive and appropriate democracy where every citizen feels valued, respected, and empowered.
“We have much to do to achieve this vision. There is no division among us. We are united, and that is where we will draw our strength to take bold steps.
“Our focus will be on several key areas to strengthen legislative independence. Our top priority is ensuring that our vision remains robust and success-driven.
“We will promote transparency and accountability in governance, ensuring that our actions are guided by 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, as expected of others.
“As Speaker, I commit to prioritising the needs of our constituents. Through you, we will ensure that united voices are heard, concerns are addressed, and our welfare is protected.
“Our goal is to create a more inclusive, participatory democracy where citizens are actively engaged in the decision-making processes that impact their lives.
“Rest assured, we will all work together to achieve the vision for Lagos State, as guided by God.
“I am committed to listening to ideas, responding to concerns, and working collaboratively with everyone to address the challenges we face. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for Lagos State – a future built on the principles of justice, equality, and opportunity for all. We believe in the hope for a better society, and we will achieve this together.”
Some members of the House, including Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, and Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa 2, among others, commiserated with the people of Badagry.
According to them, “Pa Ajose was an accomplished politician and civil servant who had worked tirelessly to unite the people of Badagry and, by extension, his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
The Speaker described the late politician as a rare gem. She then instructed the Acting Clerk to write a condolence letter to the family and the people of Badagry.
The House thereafter adjourned plenary to January 21, 2025, at noon.
