Lagos assembly demands probe into SSS ‘Invasion’ of complex

The complex was closed for several hours before legislative staff forced open the chamber’s doors.

News Agency of Nigeria • February 17, 2025

Lagos State Assembly [Credit: Punch Newspaper]

The Lagos State House of Assembly has called for a thorough investigation of the State Security Service (SSS) for its undue interference at the complex on Monday.

Stephen Ogundipe, chairman of the House committee on information, security, and strategy, made this statement in Lagos on Monday.

There was chaos at the assembly on Monday with lawmakers and staff clashing with SSS personnel upon arrival.

The complex was closed for several hours before legislative staff forced open the chamber’s doors.

Mr Ogundipe said the presence of armed SSS operatives undermined the sanctity of the assembly and obstructed lawmakers from fulfilling their constitutional duties.

He called on relevant authorities to investigate this unwarranted restriction and ensure such incidents do not happen again.

Mr Ogundipe stressed that the SSS’ presence infringed upon the legislature’s independence and directly attacked democratic governance.

The lawmaker also noted a SSS publication about a letter dated Feb. 14, titled ‘Enhanced Security Measures for LSHA.’

Mr Ogundipe explained that the SSS released a letter from the acting clerk, requesting security presence at the assembly complex, to justify their actions.

He stated that when lawmakers and staff arrived, they found the speaker’s, deputy speaker’s, and acting clerk’s offices locked by SSS operatives, and the legislative chamber sealed.

Mr Ogundipe emphasised that while the House had previously sought security from the SSS, the request never included invading offices or restricting access to the chamber.

“The letter requesting security never instructed the SSS to invade the legislative chamber or lock offices,” he clarified.

He added, “Today’s events raise serious concerns about undue interference in legislative affairs.”

Mr Ogundipe reminded that lawmakers had lawfully removed the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and continued to support Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s leadership.

The lawmakers remain committed to enacting laws that promote the development and progress of the state.

(NAN)

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