The Lagos State House of Assembly etched a new chapter into its political history on Monday, as Barrister Adenike Abolanle Oshinowo was officially sworn in as the first female Clerk of the legislature.

The atmosphere at the Assembly complex was electric, blending the gravity of an official swearing-in with the emotional farewell of a valedictory session.

Lawmakers, dignitaries, family members and well-wishers gathered in numbers to witness the historic transition of power from the outgoing Clerk, Barrister Olalekan Onafeko, to Mrs. Oshinowo.

Appointed on April 28, 2026, Mrs. Oshinowo’s ascension to the apex administrative role in the House breaks a decades-long glass ceiling.

A legal practitioner and seasoned public administrator, she brings over two decades of meritorious service within the Lagos State Public Service to her new role.

Oshinowo’s academic and professional pedigree is formidable. An alumnus of the Lagos State University (LL.B), she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1995.

She further specialized by obtaining an LL.M in Legislative Drafting from the prestigious Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.

She joined the Lagos State Civil Service as a Legal Draftsman in 1997.  Served her first stint at the State House of Assembly 1999 – 2006. Returned to the Assembly after a brief tenure at the Ministry of Justice, rising steadily through the ranks in 2008.Appointed Deputy Clerk of the House in 2021. Sworn in as the first female Clerk in 2026.

A member of both the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA), her appointment is widely expected to significantly bolster parliamentary administration and democratic governance in Lagos State.

The event also doubled as a celebration of the outgoing Clerk, Barrister Olalekan Onafeko, who is stepping down after more than twenty years of dedicated service to the assembly.

The Speaker of the House, Dr.  Mudashir Obasa, led the chamber in paying glowing tributes to Onafeko, emphasizing that his longevity and dedication deserved the highest recognition.

“He has served from 2002 till now. Even if he had done nothing, the years spent in service are enough. He must not be denied the fanfare and celebration. I wish him success, long life and peace of mind as he steps out as former Clerk,” Obasa stated.

 Aro Moshood described him as a remarkable public servant who served with unwavering diligence from his very first day in office.

Nureni Akinsanya celebrated him as a distinguished administrator whose commitment left an indelible mark on the Assembly, wishing him good health and greater achievements in his future endeavors.

Abiodun Tobun specifically praised Onafeko’s discipline and loyalty to the institution, noting his ability to guard the integrity of the parliament. “The sixth Clerk of the House is bowing out and I congratulate you. You refused to divulge information as Clerk even when we were pressured. Congratulations,” Tobun remarked.

Following the valedictory remarks, Speaker Obasa formally congratulated Mrs. Oshinowo on her historic appointment, wishing her a successful and impactful tenure.