On the 17th of February 2025, the Department of State Services (DSS) barged into the office of the Lagos State House of Assembly, sparking widespread controversy and raising concerns about the agency’s role in democratic institutions.
The unexpected presence of DSS operatives at the Assembly complex was met with resistance from lawmakers and staff, who described the incident as an unwarranted interference in the legislative process. The DSS, however, claims that its actions were in response to a legitimate request from the Assembly management, citing a letter dated February 14, 2025, which informed security agencies of potential threats to the Assembly.
As the controversy surrounding the DSS’s actions continues to unfold, it is essential to examine the events leading up to the incident, the DSS’s claims, and the implications of their actions on democratic institutions in Nigeria.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has a long history, dating back to its inauguration on October 2, 1979. The Assembly has had 10 legislative assemblies, with eight representatives holding the office of Speaker. The current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, was elected on January 13, 2025, following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa.
According to reports, the DSS operatives arrived at the Assembly complex early in the morning, locking the offices of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Acting Clerk. The legislative chamber was also sealed, preventing lawmakers from accessing the complex.
Lawmakers and staff described the scene as chaotic, with DSS operatives allegedly harassing and intimidating them. The incident sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for an investigation into the DSS’s actions.
The DSS, however, claims that its actions were justified, citing the letter from the Assembly management which informed security agencies of potential threats to the Assembly. The agency claims that its operatives were deployed to the Assembly complex to provide security and prevent any potential breaches of peace.
Despite the DSS’s claims, the incident has raised concerns about the agency’s role in democratic institutions. Many have questioned the DSS’s motives, wondering why the agency felt it necessary to deploy operatives to the Assembly complex without the knowledge or consent of the lawmakers.
As the investigation into the incident continues, it is essential that all parties involved are held accountable for their actions. The people of Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole deserve to know the truth behind the DSS’s presence at the Assembly complex.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the DSS’s presence at the Lagos State House of Assembly is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and investigation. While the agency claims to have acted in response to a legitimate request, its actions have been perceived as an attack on the independence of the legislature. As the incident continues to unfold, it is essential that transparency, accountability, and the rule of law are upheld.
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