The Department of State Services (DSS) has defended its presence at the Lagos State House of Assembly, explaining that its operatives were invited to provide security at the complex following a request from the lawmakers.
This clarification comes amid growing concerns over the security takeover of the Assembly, which included sealing off offices belonging to the Speaker and his Deputy. The DSS emphasized that it did not storm the Assembly but was deployed after the request from the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement issued on Monday, the DSS outlined that the Assembly had sent a letter on February 14, 2025, asking for increased security due to credible threats. The letter warned that there were plans to forcibly reinstate the impeached Speaker on February 18, 2025, which could endanger the safety of the Assembly and its members.
The DSS statement included an excerpt from the letter, signed by the Acting Clerk of the Assembly, Mr. A.T.B. Ottun, addressed to the DSS Director in Lagos and other state security agencies. 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 DSS reassured the public that its actions were solely focused on maintaining order and ensuring security at the Assembly, in line with the lawmakers’ request.
