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Drama Unfolds: Meranda Explains How She Secured Superior SUV For Less Than ₦5 Billion

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The acquisition of ₦5 billion worth of vehicles for 40 lawmakers at the Lagos State House of Assembly has sparked controversy, intensifying the rift between Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and former Speaker Mojisola Meranda.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Meranda oversaw the purchase of 39 vehicles during Obasa’s brief removal as Speaker. However, prior to his ousting on January 13, 2025, Obasa had already approved ₦7 billion for the same purpose in December 2024. His removal, which was supported by 35 out of the 40 lawmakers, was based on allegations of financial mismanagement and autocratic behavior. Meranda served as Speaker for 49 days before resigning on March 3, following an intervention by the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership. She was reinstated as Deputy Speaker, while Obasa regained his position.

Despite this resolution, tensions remain, with Obasa challenging his removal in court and disputing the vehicle purchase. He claims that the procurement, executed during his absence, deviated from his original plan to buy the vehicles from Dubai via his preferred bidder.

A close associate of Obasa explained to The PUNCH, “He had already approved the funds before his removal, but Meranda proceeded with the purchase, which angered Obasa.” Another source clarified that the main difference lay in the procurement process: “In December, Obasa had intended to purchase the vehicles from Dubai, but when Meranda took over, she opted for a local open bidding process.”

A source close to Meranda defended her actions, highlighting that she saved the Assembly ₦2 billion by purchasing 32 units of 2025 Toyota Prado SUVs and seven Toyota Landcruisers for ₦5 billion, rather than spending the ₦7 billion originally allocated by Obasa.

“Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda did not withdraw any funds from the House’s account. She simply revised an existing procurement plan, leading to substantial cost savings,” the source emphasized.

The source also pointed out that Obasa had initially approved the purchase of 35 Toyota Fortuner SUVs and 10 Toyota Prado SUVs from Dubai for ₦7 billion. However, Meranda’s administration chose to source the vehicles locally, thus reducing costs and improving efficiency.

“Unlike Obasa, who planned to import the vehicles, Meranda ensured that all cars were sourced locally. It’s also important to note that Meranda did not approve any vehicles for the Speaker’s office, despite holding the position at the time,” the source added.

Obasa’s legal battle against Meranda and the Assembly continues, with his lawyer, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), stating that the allegations of “highhandedness, fraudulent practices, and misconduct” must be addressed.

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