By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Department of State Services (DSS) has explained what led to the deployment of its operatives to the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday amid leadership tussles.
The security agency said its men were invited by the officials of the House to strengthen the security situation at the complex.
The media had reported how heavily armed operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) and the Nigerian police stormed the assembly to seal the new Speaker, Mojisola Meranda’s office
The DSS officials also sealed the offices of the Deputy speaker and the Clerk of the House.
The armed security personnel reportedly working under the directive of the recently removed speaker, Mudashiru Obasa took control of the assembly premises around 10am at Alausa, Ikeja
In a statement issued on Monday, the DSS explained that the request came in the form of a letter from the Assembly dated February 14, 2025, which specifically sought increased security due to potential threats.
The letter, according to the DSS, cited credible information suggesting that plans were underway to forcefully reinstate the impeached Speaker of the Assembly on February 18, 2025, which could pose a security risk.
The letter further noted that such an action could threaten the safety of the Assembly and its members.
The letter read: “The impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly plans to resume office on the 18th of February, 2025, 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 observing strict access control within and outside the Assembly premises till further notice.”
The media had also reported that members of the Lagos State House of Assembly already passed a vote of confidence in Mojisola Meranda, as the substantive speaker of the house.
The lawmakers declared their support for Meranda following rumours of her possible resignation.