3 Lagos assembly workers issue apology to DSS over assault

Three officials from the Lagos State House of Assembly (LSHA) have formally apologized to the Department of State Services (DSS) following their arrest for assaulting DSS operatives during the recent leadership crisis at the Assembly.

The incident occurred after the Assembly had requested DSS intervention through a letter dated February 14, 2025, signed by Acting Clerk A.T.B. Ottun. The letter, with reference number LSHA/FAD/0/7554/323, sought the presence of DSS personnel to secure the legislative facility from February 15 onwards.

However, upon the DSS operatives’ arrival, three Assembly workers reportedly assaulted them. Using CCTV footage, the DSS identified and apprehended the suspects, who were later charged for their actions.

In separate letters of apology dated March 28, 2025, the detained officials—Ibrahim Abdul-Akeem Olarenwaju (Public Affairs Officer), Miss Adetola Fatimoh Oluwatosin, and Adetu Samshudeen Adekunle (both officers with the Sergeant-at-Arms unit)—expressed their remorse over the incident.

The apologies, addressed to DSS Director General, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, were routed through the State Director of Security, Lagos State Command.

One of the letters read: “I, Ibrahim Abdul-Akeem Olarenwaju, hereby tender my unreserved apology for any act or omission that I might have caused your distinguished office and personnel in the course of my duty at the hallowed chamber of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, on the 27th day of February, 2025.”

The other assembly workers echoed similar sentiments, pledging to conduct themselves appropriately in the future and avoid any actions that could undermine DSS personnel.

During the leadership crisis at the Assembly, several media outlets had initially published reports claiming that DSS operatives invaded the legislative complex. However, upon reviewing the facts, many media organizations retracted their reports and issued apologies to the DSS.

This development highlights the importance of accurate reporting and the need for professionalism in handling security-related matters at public institutions.