DSS Storms Lagos State House of Assembly, Seals Speaker and Deputy’s Offices Amid Political Crisis

 DSS Storms Lagos State House of Assembly, Seals Speaker and Deputy’s Offices Amid Political Crisis

In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have sealed the offices of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mojisola Meranda and Deputy Speaker Fatai Mojeed. This decisive move underscores the deepening crisis that has engulfed Nigeria’s commercial capital following the controversial impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

Power Struggle and Impeachment Controversy

The crisis erupted when 35 out of the 40 assembly members voted to remove Obasa from office on January 13, 2025. Lawmakers cited allegations of gross misconduct and financial impropriety, marking an unprecedented shake-up in Lagos's legislative leadership. Obasa, who had held the speakership since June 2015, was swiftly replaced by his former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, making her the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

DSS Intervention and Detention of Lawmakers

The DSS became actively involved after two prominent lawmakers, Lanre Afinni (Lagos Island Constituency 2) and Sylvester Ogunkelu (Epe Constituency 2), were detained for allegedly forcefully accessing a secured storage facility within the assembly complex to retrieve the mace—the official symbol of legislative authority. This controversial move facilitated the impeachment session, which ultimately led to Obasa’s removal.

Their detention triggered an outcry from lawmakers, with Deputy Speaker Fatai Mojeed leading a delegation of legislators to the DSS headquarters in a bid to secure their release. Following interrogations, the detained lawmakers were freed after providing necessary clarifications.

Legislative Standpoint and Constitutionality

In response to the unfolding events, the Lagos State House of Assembly has defended the legality of Obasa’s impeachment. Chairman of the House Ad Hoc Committee on Information, Stephen Ogundipe, emphasized that the impeachment followed due process, citing Sections 92 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution, which outline the procedures for electing and removing a Speaker.

“We ensured that all constitutional provisions were adhered to. This process was both legal and democratic,” Ogundipe stated. He also commended the DSS for its professionalism, noting that their intervention was in the interest of stability and rule of law.

Obasa’s Counterclaims and Legal Challenge

Despite the Assembly’s assertions, Obasa has strongly contested the legitimacy of his impeachment, alleging procedural violations. He has petitioned the DSS, urging them to investigate the circumstances surrounding his removal, further intensifying the already volatile political climate.

Implications for Lagos Governance

The current impasse raises serious concerns about legislative stability and governance in Lagos State. The sealing of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker’s offices has effectively disrupted legislative activities, casting a shadow over the state’s governance. With political tensions at a boiling point, stakeholders and political analysts warn of further escalations if swift resolutions are not reached.

Political observers argue that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, cannot afford prolonged legislative paralysis. They urge the Assembly to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation to prevent a constitutional crisis that could impact governance and policy-making.

Defining Moment for Lagos Politics

The unfolding drama within the Lagos State House of Assembly underscores the fragile nature of political power and governance in Nigeria. With allegations, detentions, and legal battles at play, the next few days will be pivotal in determining whether Lagos’s legislative body can weather this storm and reaffirm its commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

As this high-stakes political battle unfolds, all eyes remain on the Lagos State government and security agencies to see whether stability can be restored without further deepening the crisis.