Lagos Lawmakers decry invasion of Assembly, say it’s national embarrassment

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have criticised  the invasion of the Assembly complex by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police on Monday, saying the development was  a “rape of democracy, an aberration, and a national embarrassment.”

During a plenary session attended by 36 members, the lawmakers demanded an explanation from the Lagos State Director of DSS regarding the reasons behind the invasion.

They also  appealed to  the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to probe the incident and  supply  the public with a comprehensive briefing on the findings. In addition, the Assembly  implored  President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and prevent the situation from escalating further.

Voicing their angst, the lawmakers in unanimity frowned at the invasion, describing it as an abuse of legislative procedure and a threat to democratic governance.

Speaking during the session, Hon. Abiodun Tobun said: “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.”

He further affirmed the lawmakers’ loyalty to the Speaker Mojisola Meranda, saying: “Nobody can dictate to us. God chooses and removes leaders. We are solidly behind your leadership, Mr. Speaker—nobody can remove you.”

The lawmakers suggested that powerful and influential individuals or groups might be behind the incident, calling for a thorough investigation to uncover those responsible.

The House remained united in its stance, insisting on protecting the independence of the legislature and ensuring that such actions do not undermine democratic processes in the state.