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The CLEEN Foundation has expressed deep concern over the invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police, describing it as a violation of democratic principles and a threat to the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Monday, the foundation criticized the deployment of security operatives to the Assembly complex, where the offices of the Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, the Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House were reportedly sealed off.
It warned that such actions undermine the independence of the legislature and disrupt democratic governance.
The organization noted that the security operation occurred amid ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
It cautioned that such interference could set a dangerous precedent for the relationship between security agencies and legislative bodies across the country.
While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to maintain law and order, the CLEEN Foundation stressed that their actions must remain within constitutional and legal boundaries.
It urged security agencies to act with professionalism and ensure that security measures do not obstruct democratic processes.
The foundation called for security agencies to provide a clear legal basis for their actions and allow the Lagos State House of Assembly to function without interference. It also urged all parties involved to respect due legal processes and uphold the independence of democratic institutions.
The CLEEN Foundation further called on the federal and Lagos State governments, as well as the judiciary, to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic institutions and prevent the misuse of security forces for political purposes.