DSS justifies presence at Lagos assembly, says lawmakers asked for security protection

• The incident follows the recent removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was ousted while he was in the United States.
• His removal, backed by 32 out of 40 lawmakers on January 13, 2025, has been described as controversial.
• In response, Obasa has filed a lawsuit at the Lagos State High Court, challenging the legitimacy of his impeachment and requesting an urgent hearing.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has justified its deployment at the Lagos State House of Assembly, revealing that lawmakers invited its operatives.

The invitation was to provide security at the complex amid rising tensions over the Assembly’s security takeover.

The DSS clarified that it didn’t storm the Assembly, instead emphasizing its deployment followed a request from the Lagos State House of Assembly itself.

On Monday, the DSS issued a statement explaining that the request came via a letter from the Assembly dated February 14, 2025.

The letter sought increased security due to potential threats, specifically citing plans to forcefully reinstate the impeached Speaker on February 18, 2025.

This move posed a security risk, potentially threatening the Assembly’s safety and its members.

The DSS statement included an excerpt from the letter signed by Acting Clerk Mr. A.T.B. Ottun.

The letter 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 assured the public its actions aimed to ensure order and security at the Assembly, in line with the lawmakers’ request.