By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Department of State Services (DSS) has clarified its involvement in the security situation at the Lagos State House of Assembly, following a leadership crisis that has gripped the House in recent days.
In a statement issued on Monday, the DSS explained that its operatives were deployed to the Assembly at the request of the legislative body itself.
According to the security agency, the request was made in a letter dated February 14, 2025, seeking increased security at the Assembly complex in light of potential threats.
The DSS confirmed that it received credible intelligence suggesting that the impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, planned to forcefully resume office on February 18, 2025, which could lead to unrest and security challenges.
This development prompted the Assembly officials to request DSS assistance to fortify the complex’s security to ensure the safety of members and staff.
In the statement, the DSS revealed that the Assembly’s letter highlighted the risks posed by Obasa’s purported attempt to return to office, describing it as a “potential security threat.”
The letter specifically asked the DSS to increase its security presence and implement strict access control within and around the Assembly premises starting from February 16, 2025.
This move comes amid rising tensions within the Assembly following the impeachment of Obasa and the appointment of Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker.
Despite rumours that Meranda might resign, the lawmakers recently passed a vote of confidence in her leadership, affirming her position.
On Monday, BlackBox Nigeria reported that heavily armed DSS operatives, alongside Nigerian police officers, had sealed the offices of Meranda, the Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House, causing further concern.
The operatives reportedly acted under the directive of the removed Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, who still maintains influence over certain factions within the Assembly.
