The Lagos State House of Assembly has clarified the reason for the presence of operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) at the assembly complex in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025. The Assembly management stated that security agencies were called upon to maintain order and ensure safety, not to seal off offices.
Reacting to the situation, the Acting Clerk of the Assembly, A. Ottun, said, “The assembly called upon security agencies to ensure security, help maintain order and not seal off offices.”
A letter dated February 14, 2025, and signed by Ottun, was sent to the DSS Director in Lagos, as well as the heads of other security agencies in the state. The letter stated that the Assembly had received credible intelligence suggesting that the impeached Speaker was planning to forcibly return to office on February 18, 2025.
The management noted that such an action posed “a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.” In response, the Assembly requested that security agencies take immediate steps to prevent any breach of order within the premises.
The letter, with reference number LSHA/FAD/0/7554/323, was titled “Urgent: Enhanced Security Measures for LSHA Premises.” It urged security agencies to strengthen security at the Assembly from Sunday, February 16, 2025, onwards.
It further stated: “The impeached Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly plans to resume office on February 18, 2025, as the Speaker, poses a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.
“We kindly request that you take necessary measures to fortify the security of the Assembly premises with effect from Sunday, February 16, 2025, by increasing the presence of your men and as well observe strict access control within and outside the Assembly premises till further notice.
“We look forward to your prompt attention Sir. Thank you.”
