DSS Arrests Three Individuals Following Assault on Officers Amidst Lagos Assembly Turmoil
The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended three individuals in connection with the assault on its operatives during the recent unrest at the Lagos State House of Assembly. The incident, which occurred on February 17, 2025, has intensified the ongoing political discord within the Assembly.
According to an internal source within the DSS, certain lawmakers allegedly mobilized supporters to the Assembly Complex, leading to an altercation where DSS officers, who had been summoned by the Assembly’s leadership to maintain order, were attacked. The source detailed, “After extensive analysis of CCTV footage, we were able to clearly identify three of the suspects.” The individuals arrested include Ibrahim Olanrewaju Abdulkareem, a photographer, along with Adetu Adekunle Samsudeen and Adetola Oluwatosin Fatimoh, both affiliated with the Assembly’s Sergeant-at-Arms. The trio was apprehended at various locations across Lagos during the week and have reportedly confessed to their involvement in the incident. Legal proceedings are anticipated to commence shortly.
The backdrop to this confrontation stems from a leaked memorandum dated February 14, 2025, addressed to the DSS Director and other security agency heads in Lagos State. The document, issued by the Acting Clerk of the House, A. Ottun, cited credible intelligence indicating that the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, intended to forcibly reinstate himself on February 18, 2025. The memo emphasized that such actions posed “a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.” In response, the Assembly’s management requested enhanced security measures to safeguard the premises and prevent any unlawful attempts to reclaim the Speaker’s position.
The political landscape within the Lagos State House of Assembly has been tumultuous, marked by power struggles and leadership disputes. The recent impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has further deepened divisions, leading to heightened tensions and security concerns. In light of these events, the DSS’s involvement was deemed necessary to maintain order and protect the integrity of the legislative process.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by security agencies in navigating the complex interplay of politics and law enforcement. The DSS remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding peace and ensuring that the rule of law prevails within the state’s legislative framework. As investigations continue, the public awaits further developments, hopeful for a resolution that reinforces democratic principles and the sanctity of governmental institutions.