The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has criticized the Department of State Services (DSS) for sealing off the Assembly complex, denying claims that lawmakers invited the security agency to take such action.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that on Monday, armed DSS operatives took over the Assembly premises, blocking access to the office of the Speaker, as well as restricting lawmakers, and staff. The incident caused tension within the complex, as legislators and Assembly workers forced open the chamber doors to continue with their session.
However, after just 35 minutes of deliberation, Speaker Meranda was forced to adjourn the sitting indefinitely.
In response to the backlash following the incident, the DSS released an official statement defending its presence at the Assembly. The agency insisted that it had not forcefully entered the premises but had been invited to provide security following concerns raised by the lawmakers.
The DSS statement referenced a letter dated February 14, 2025, from the Lagos State House of Assembly. The letter, according to the security agency, warned that there were credible reports of an attempt by the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, to reclaim his office on February 18, 2025. The letter reportedly stated that this move could create security risks and disrupt legislative activities.
Meanwhile, a senior aide to the Speaker, who spoke anonymously, explained that the Assembly’s letter to the DSS was misinterpreted. According to the aide, the lawmakers had only requested additional security, fearing that the impeached Speaker, might attempt to reclaim his position on Tuesday. The aide said the letter specifically sought security reinforcement to prevent any disturbance but never asked for the legislative complex to be sealed.
“The DSS action on Monday deviated from the original intent. They hijacked the situation, sealing off the legislative chamber and offices of some principal officers. It appears they received instructions from another source,” the aide explained.