Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have strongly condemned the invasion of their complex by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force. The incident occurred on Monday and has sparked widespread outrage among the lawmakers. They have described the invasion as a serious blow to democracy, labeling it a “rape of democracy” and a “national embarrassment.”
During a plenary session attended by 36 members, the lawmakers demanded a clear explanation from the Director of the DSS in Lagos regarding the reasons behind the action. The legislators have also called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to investigate the matter thoroughly and provide the public with a full report on the findings. In addition, the Assembly urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately to prevent any further escalation of the situation.
The lawmakers voiced their anger over the invasion, stating that it was an abuse of legislative procedure and a direct threat to democratic governance in the state. They underscored the need for a secure and independent legislature, free from external interference.
Hon. Abiodun Tobun, a member of the Assembly, voiced the collective frustration of the lawmakers, saying, “This is not a government ruled by the barrel of a gun. This is an aberration of democracy and a step toward anarchy. What happened today is a total embarrassment and an act of harassment.” His statement reflected the deep concern among the lawmakers that the incident could signal a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism.
Further reinforcing their commitment to protecting the integrity of the Assembly, the lawmakers pledged their support for the Speaker, stating that no external force could dictate their leadership choices. “Nobody can dictate to us. God chooses and removes leaders. We are solidly behind your leadership, Mr. Speaker—nobody can remove you,” Hon. Tobun added.
The lawmakers also suggested that powerful individuals or groups with vested interests might have been behind the invasion, calling for an in-depth investigation to identify those responsible. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that such actions do not undermine the legislative process and the democratic values that the Assembly represents.
