- DSS defended its presence at the Lagos Assembly, saying it was invited by lawmakers.
- The Assembly requested increased security due to threats of reinstating the impeached Speaker.
- DSS assured its actions were aimed at ensuring safety and order at the Assembly.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has responded to criticism regarding its presence at the Lagos State House of Assembly, asserting that its deployment was at the request of the Assembly itself.
The agency emphasized that it did not storm the legislative complex but was instead invited to ensure security due to mounting threats.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the DSS issued a statement on Monday, in the statement the DSS explained that its operatives were deployed following a letter from the Lagos State House of Assembly, dated February 14, 2025.
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The letter requested increased security measures due to intelligence suggesting a possible attempt to reinstate the impeached Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, on February 18, 2025.
The DSS clarified that the threat of violence surrounding the potential reinstatement posed a risk to the safety of the Assembly and its members, prompting the decision to deploy security forces.
The letter, signed by Acting Clerk A.T.B. Ottun, stated: “The impeached Speaker plans to resume office on February 18, 2025, posing a potential security threat. In light of this, we kindly request you increase security presence from February 16, 2025, and ensure strict access control to the Assembly premises.”
The DSS further explained that its officers had secured the premises to prevent any disruption to legislative activities, with measures in place to control access both inside and outside the Assembly.
The agency assured that its actions were in line with the security needs expressed by the Assembly, aimed at maintaining order and safety.
The security operation, which included sealing the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda and her deputy, as well as heightened scrutiny of the premises, has sparked controversy.
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While some lawmakers have expressed concern over what they describe as a violation of the legislative independence, the DSS has firmly stated that its actions were solely for the purpose of maintaining peace.
As tensions continue, the DSS reiterated that its involvement was in response to a genuine request from the Assembly, ensuring that all actions taken were within the boundaries of law and necessary for public safety.
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