‘We were invited’: DSS denies invading Lagos Assembly complex

The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied that its operatives invaded the Lagos State House of Assembly complex in the Ikeja area of the state.

This is contained in a letter addressed to the DSS by the Acting Clerk of the House, ATB Ottun.

The letter, a copy of which was released by the DSS on Monday, February 17, 2025, revealed that the acting Clerk invited the DSS operatives to forestall an alleged move to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as the Speaker of the House.

In a copy of the letter dated February 14, 2025, Ottun informed the secret police that there was credible information that plans were afoot to forcefully reinstate Obasa as the Speaker of the House on Tuesday, February 18.

He stated: “I wish to bring to your attention a pressing matter that requires immediate action.

“The impeached Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly plans to resume to office on the 18th of February, 2025, as the Speaker, 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 as well observe strict access control within and outside the Assembly premises till further notice.

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“We look forward to your prompt attention Sir. Thank you.”

There was commotion at the Lagos Assembly complex on Monday as lawmakers and legislative staff clashed with the DSS officers after they arrived at the chamber.

The complex was shut for several hours before some legislative staff forced the chamber’s doors open.

The Speaker of the House, Mojisola Meranda, and other lawmakers faulted the presence of the DSS officers, accusing the service of intimidation and harassment of lawmakers.

Meranda said: “The invasion of the Assembly complex by DSS personnel was an attack on democracy.

“I am appealing to the leadership of the DSS to let us know the reason for taking over the House of Assembly, especially coming to this chamber with weapons.”

The House speakership crisis started following the removal of Obasa as Speaker over alleged financial impropriety and gross misconduct.

Obasa was immediately replaced by his deputy, Meranda.

Obasa, on Friday, February 14, approached the Lagos High Court to challenge his removal by his colleagues.

The Star