Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, swore in Adenike Abolanle Oshinowo, a lawyer and legislative draftsman, as the first female clerk of the Assembly while extolling the virtues of the former clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, who voluntarily retired after a distinguished career in the civil service.
The swearing-in ceremony, held alongside a valedictory service for Onafeko inside the Assembly chamber, was attended by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; the Head of Service, Olabode Agoro; lawmakers; top government officials; members of the Judiciary; family representatives; and staff of the Assembly.
In his remark, Speaker Obasa praised Onafeko for serving the Assembly with distinction, dedication, and innovation. “From his deployment to this House in 2000, he rose through the ranks to become Clerk in 2020. He pioneered the establishment of the Service Delivery Unit, championed accountability, and inspired colleagues with his humility and integrity,” Obasa stated.
Speaker Obasa said further that beyond his professional achievements, “Barrister Onafeko has been recognized as a philanthropist, a community leader, and a man of deep values. He is a recipient of the coveted Annual Best Officer Award, a two-time nominee for the prestigious National Merit Award, and the beneficiary of numerous letters of commendation in recognition of his exemplary service, dedication, and exceptional work ethic.”
While wishing him a well-deserved retirement, Speaker Obasa prayed, “May your years ahead be filled with joy, good health, greater impact in community service, and continued fulfilment with your dear family. We wish you Godspeed, sir.”
During the administration of the oath on the new clerk, Speaker Obasa described her as a distinguished legal practitioner, seasoned legislative draftsman, and accomplished public administrator. He added, “Mrs. Oshinowo embodies excellence, integrity, and resilience. She has devoted over two decades to the Lagos State Public Service, rising steadily through critical roles in the Ministry of Justice and the House of Assembly Service Commission.”
He expressed strong confidence in her ability to steer the affairs of the House, stating, “Mrs. Oshinowo brings to this office a wealth of experience and a clear vision for strengthening parliamentary administration and advancing democratic institutions. We are confident that under her stewardship, this Assembly will continue to thrive as a pillar of legislative excellence,” the Speaker stated.
The Speaker urged all staff and management of the House to extend full cooperation, loyalty, and support to the new Clerk, emphasising that collective effort and unity of purpose remain critical to sustaining the institution’s progress.
Speaker Obasa described the transition as a “significant moment of continuity and strength” for the Lagos State House of Assembly and reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th Assembly to deepening democracy, good governance, and efficient service delivery to the people of Lagos State.
