Why we were at Lagos State House of Assembly DSS clears air
Why we were at Lagos State House of Assembly DSS clears air
The Department of State Services (DSS) has addressed the increasing controversy over its security operation at the Lagos State House of Assembly, clarifying that its presence was not an unexpected raid but a response to a formal request from the lawmakers.
In a statement issued on Monday, the DSS explained that it was invited by the Assembly to enhance security at the complex due to growing concerns about possible threats.
The agency emphasised that its operatives had not “stormed” the premises, but had been deployed as part of a security operation after the Lagos State House of Assembly sent an official request on February 14, 2025.
The DSS statement outlined that the request came in response to credible intelligence suggesting that there were plans to forcibly reinstate the impeached Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, on February 18, 2025.
The Assembly, in its letter, expressed concern that such an action could lead to security breaches and disrupt the peace of the House and its members.
An excerpt from the letter, signed by the Acting Clerk of the House, Mr. A.T.B. Ottun, was included in the DSS statement. It read: “The impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly plans to resume office on the 18th of February, 2025, posing a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members. In light of this situation, we kindly request that you take necessary measures to fortify the security of the Assembly premises with effect from Sunday, 16th February, 2025, by increasing the presence of your men and observing strict access control within and outside the Assembly premises till further notice.”
The DSS reiterated that its actions were solely aimed at maintaining order and ensuring the safety of the Assembly, in line with the request made by the legislative body.
The agency reassured the public that the operation was a necessary precaution in response to the potential security risks cited by the lawmakers.
