The Lagos State House of Assembly has indefinitely suspended its plenary following a security breach at the assembly complex on Monday.
The incident, which occurred earlier in the day, saw operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly enter the premises and lock the office of the Deputy Speaker before the commencement of the session.
The unexpected security action resulted in a tense standoff between the lawmakers and security personnel. However, the legislators eventually regained access to the Assembly chambers.
The development prompted an increased security presence around the Assembly complex, with police vans stationed at the main entrance to maintain order and prevent further disruptions.
Eyewitnesses reported heightened tension within the vicinity as officers closely monitored activities around the legislative building.
During the plenary session, the legislators expressed concern over the security breach, describing it as an affront to the integrity of the state legislature. In response, they passed a vote of confidence in the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda, reaffirming their support for her leadership.
Speaker Meranda made history on January 13, 2025, as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the removal of her predecessor, Mudashiru Obasa.
The Assembly resolved to investigate the circumstances surrounding the breach and vowed to communicate its findings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi.
“We will not allow the sanctity of this Assembly to be compromised,” one of the lawmakers stated. “This is an institution of democracy, and we must protect it from any form of intimidation.”
The indefinite suspension of plenary underscores the Assembly’s commitment to addressing the security concerns before resuming its legislative duties.
Further developments are expected as the investigation unfolds.
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