The Lagos State House of Assembly has adjourned its plenary session indefinitely following a controversial invasion by operatives of the State Security Services (SSS), also known as the Department of State Services (DSS). The incident, which occurred on Monday, February 17, 2025, led to heightened tensions within the assembly complex.
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Security Breach: SSS operatives reportedly entered the assembly premises and locked the Deputy Speaker’s office before the plenary session began. This action sparked a standoff between lawmakers and the security personnel.
Lawmakers’ Response: During the plenary, the lawmakers condemned the security breach and resolved to investigate the incident. They also vowed to report their findings to President Bola Tinubu and the SSS Director General, Oluwatosin Ajayi.
Condemnation by Lawmakers:
Kehinde Joseph, a lawmaker, raised a matter of urgent public importance, describing the presence of armed SSS officials as an attack on democracy. He expressed shock at finding the chambers occupied by security operatives.
Stephen Ogundipe warned that any harm to lawmakers or staff would be blamed on the SSS, emphasizing that the democracy they fought for was being undermined.
SSS’s Explanation: The SSS claimed they were invited by the assembly’s management to prevent a breakdown of law and order. They shared an unsigned statement and a copy of the invitation letter from the acting clerk of the assembly. However, videos showed lawmakers physically resisting the SSS officials.
Vote of Confidence: Amid the controversy, the lawmakers passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, who was visibly emotional as her colleagues expressed solidarity.
The current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, assumed office after the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on January 13, 2025. Obasa was ousted by a two-thirds majority of lawmakers over allegations of financial mismanagement, abuse of power, and lack of transparency.
Obasa has challenged his removal in court, claiming it was unlawful as it occurred while he was out of the country and the assembly was in recess.
Implications:
The incident has raised concerns about the integrity of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Lagos State. The indefinite adjournment of plenary sessions could delay legislative activities and impact governance. The lawmakers’ resolve to investigate the matter and report to higher authorities underscores the seriousness of the security breach.
This development highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Lagos State House of Assembly and the broader implications for democracy and governance in Nigeria.
Reference
Security Breach at Lagos Assembly: Lawmakers Condemn SSS Invasion, Adjourn Plenary Indefinitely