The Lagos State House of Assembly has exclusively confirmed the release of two detained lawmakers by the Department of State Security (DSS) following hours of interrogation over the ongoing speakership crisis.
Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on Information, Mr. Stephen Ogundipe, disclosed the development on Thursday in Lagos, reinforcing that the Assembly stands firmly by its dedecision
It was earlier reported that Lanre Afinni (Lagos Island 2) and Sylvester Ogunkelu were taken into custody by DSS officials on Thursday morning. The lawmakers were questioned over their alleged involvement in the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was impeached by a majority of Assembly members on January 13 and replaced by Mojisola Meranda.
The lawmakers were allegedly detained for breaking into the House’s store to access the mace, facilitating the legislative process that led to Obasa’s impeachment.
In a dramatic display of unity, Deputy Speaker Mojeed Fatai and other Assembly members stormed the DSS office to demand the release of their colleagues, emphasizing that legislative autonomy must be upheld.
Confirming the development, Ogundipe stated that all detained lawmakers had regained their freedom and reiterated that Obasa’s removal was entirely legal and constitutional, following due process.
“Today, members of the Lagos Assembly honored an invitation from the Lagos DSS Command in Shangisha, where we provided detailed insights into the ex-speaker’s removal,” Ogundipe said. “At the DSS office, we reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional governance.”
Ogundipe emphasized that the impeachment adhered strictly to the 1999 Constitution and the Powers and Privileges Act, which empower state assemblies to regulate their internal proceedings without external interference.
“It is public knowledge that legislative autonomy allows state assemblies to conduct their business freely within designated chambers,” he stated, asserting that Obasa’s removal was a democratic decision that met all legal requirements.
He warned that any attempt to challenge this decision would be seen as undermining the constitutional authority granted to the Assembly.
“The Assembly exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of Lagos residents,” Ogundipe added, making it clear that no form of political interference would reverse their decision.
He also commended the DSS, particularly the Lagos Command Director, for handling the situation professionally and ensuring a smooth and transparent engagement with lawmakers.
Ogundipe reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to its legislative responsibilities, emphasizing its role in serving the people of Lagos and promoting effective governance. He urged all stakeholders, including the executive and the public, to respect legislative proceedings and avoid undue interference.
