Kehinde Fajobi
The Department of State Services (DSS) has explained that its operatives were deployed to the Lagos State House of Assembly following an official request from the lawmakers.
Addressing concerns about the security presence at the Assembly, including the sealing of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker’s offices, the DSS clarified that it was not an uninvited intervention but a response to a formal plea for protection.
In a statement on Monday, February 17, the agency disclosed that the Assembly had written to request additional security due to potential threats.
The letter, dated February 14, 2025, according to the DSS, mentioned concerns over a possible attempt to reinstate the impeached Speaker on February 18, 2025, which was seen as a security risk.
Signed by the Acting Clerk of the Assembly, A.T.B. Ottun, the letter was addressed to the DSS Director in Lagos, calling for increased security presence.
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It stated: “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.”
Reassuring the public, the DSS stated that its deployment was solely to maintain order and ensure the safety of the Assembly, as requested by the legislators.