The Lagos State House of Assembly descended into chaos on Monday as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) stormed the complex, allegedly acting on the directive of the assembly’s clerk.
The situation escalated as lawmakers forcefully gained entry into the hallowed chamber, rallying behind the Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.
The Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, has reaffirmed its plan to meet with President Bola Tinubu regarding the crisis.
The turmoil comes after ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s legal challenge against his removal, which took place while he was on holiday in Atlanta, USA.
DSS Deployment Sparks Outrage
The assembly complex was heavily secured by DSS operatives, who sealed key offices, including those of the Speaker and other principal officers, delaying the scheduled plenary session.
Lawmakers, locked out for hours, eventually forced their way into the chamber, where Speaker Meranda was seen in tears as members and assembly staff showed solidarity.
The DSS defended its presence, stating that the assembly’s acting clerk had formally requested additional security due to concerns over Obasa’s potential return. A letter dated February 14, 2025, from the clerk, A.T.B. Ottun, confirmed the request for heightened security to prevent any disturbances within the assembly.
However, lawmakers strongly opposed the move, condemning the DSS’s actions. Some described it as an “invasion” and an affront to democracy, calling on President Tinubu to ensure accountability.
Lawmakers Decry ‘Democratic Violation’
During Monday’s plenary, multiple lawmakers spoke out against the DSS’s intervention.
- Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho 1) called for the DSS Director-General to be summoned for questioning, describing the incident as an abuse of power.
- Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi/Isolo 1) labeled it a “rape of democracy.”
- Sabur Oluwa (Ajeromi-Ifelodun 2) expressed fears over lawmakers’ safety, stating, “This harassment is completely unwarranted.”
Despite the upheaval, the lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Meranda, reaffirming their support before adjourning the plenary indefinitely.
GAC and Political Stakeholders React
GAC Chairman, Chief Tajudeen Olusi, distanced the party from the crisis, emphasizing that it was not an APC matter. Another GAC member, Chief Muraina Taiwo, stated that the situation had escalated beyond the council’s influence, requiring President Tinubu’s intervention.
Meanwhile, speculation swirled regarding Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s possible involvement, though his camp has remained silent. Some DSS operatives attached to the governor were reportedly redeployed, though the official reason remains unclear.
Obasa Denies Involvement, Crisis Deepens
Sources close to Obasa denied any connection between him and the DSS intervention, arguing that lawmakers themselves invited security operatives.
Additionally, Speaker Meranda dismissed social media rumors suggesting she planned to resign, calling them “a lie from the pit of hell.”
Lagos CP Replaced Amid Crisis
Amid the turmoil, the Police Service Commission (PSC) announced the replacement of Lagos Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ishola, with Moshood Jimoh. The move adds another layer of intrigue, fueling speculation about its connection to the ongoing crisis.
Atiku, Rhodes-Vivour Condemn DSS Actions
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the DSS’s intervention, calling it “utterly reprehensible” and an attack on democracy.
Similarly, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, decried the security agency’s actions, urging an independent investigation.
With tensions at an all-time high, all eyes are now on President Tinubu’s response as stakeholders await a resolution to the political turmoil gripping Lagos State.