The dust is yet to settle down on the wind of change that swept through the Lagos State House of Assembly which saw former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa impeached on Monday during a plenary session.

No one saw it coming, but Lagosians are beginning to come to terms with the sudden change after the female Speaker, Mojisola Meranda took her oath of office.

Below are seven things you may not know about the new Speaker.

1. Representing Apapa Constituency 1, Meranda was elected as a member of the House in 2015, and re-elected in 2019 and 2023. Mrs Meranda served the Apapa local government in different capacities before she became a lawmaker.

2. She is a vocal advocate for women?s rights, she challenges stereotypes and calls for greater representation of women in politics, emphasizing equal capabilities in leadership roles. She has initiated water projects, equipped schools, supported petty traders and widows, and facilitated training programs for mechanics.

3. Born on 16 August 1980, to the family of the late Chief T. A. Lawal Akapo (Ojora of Lagos) and Princess M. A. Lawal-Akapo of the royal families of Ojora, Aromire, Onitana, Oloto, and Oniru.Mrs Meranda attended St. Charles Nursery and Primary School before moving to Randle Primary School at Randle Avenue in Surulere from 1986 to 1992., She also attended Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, both in Surulere. After her secondary education, Mrs Meranda obtained an advanced certificate in software development in 2005. She also has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration Lagos State University in 2013

4. Mrs Meranda worked in the oil and gas industry with Cirrus Nigeria Limited as a procurement manager between 2007 and 2008. She returned to politics in 2008, taking active roles in the Apapa local government, first as a senior special assistant on intervention and intergovernmental affairs to the then Chairman, Ayodeji Joseph, and later as a supervisory councillor for health.

5. She joined Worthline International Services Limited as head of operations in 2014. Worthline was originally registered in 2012, with Mrs Meranda as a director. And then in 2015, she was elected as a member of the House.

6. As a legislator, Meranda emphasized the amendment of outdated laws over merely sponsoring new bills. She has also implemented various constituency projects, including medical outreaches and educational support initiatives.

7. Meranda is married and enjoys reading and travelling. Her determination and resilience in politics are evident in her journey to leadership roles. (The Guardian)

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