Breaking: Shocker In Abuja As SSS Men Take Over NASS Premises As House Reconvenes

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines Thursday, November 20th, 2014

From Ganiyu Nasirudeen

There was a shocker early Thursday morning as the men of the State Security Service, (SSS), took over the premises the entrances of the National Assembly in Abuja prior to the scheduled meeting by members of House of Representatives.

The development our Correspondent gathered was part of the moves by the ruling PDP led FG, to frustrate the meeting and Speaker, Rt. Hon Aminu Tambuwal, who has been facing series of intimidation since his defection from his former party (PDP) to the opposition APC.

Following the National Defence Council approval Tuesday, on extension of emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States and subsequent President Goodluck Jonathan’s letter to NASS for permission in the same regard, the House has in contrary to its ealier Wednesday, December 3, 2014 resumption date, announced it would reconvene today to deliberate on Mr. President’s request.

However, AFRICAN EXAMINER observed that entry was made impossible as heavy detachment of Security operatives (SSS) have taken over the passages. Those allowed in were thoroughly searched. The situation created tension around the premises, as many visitors turned back.

The latest development is not unconnected with the new political camp of the House Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tambuwal. It would be recalled about 48 hours after his defection to the opposition party, his security details were withdrawn purportedly, on the order of Inspector General of Police Suleimon.

Later, court ruled that his securities be returned, while he remained the substantive Speaker.

Meanwhile, the APC National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has addressed and confirmed the development to newsmen at the party’s National Headquarters, in Abuja.

Alhaji Mohammed stated that his telephone conversation with Hon. Tambuwal confirmed that he has been “locked out of the National Assembly complex at the second gate”.

In contrary, however, the party Spokesperson revealed that Tambuwal’s Deputy, Hon Emeka Ihedioha, was allowed entrance and was already in the lower chamber.

Alhaji Mohammed regretted the development, most especially as House meeting was at the instance of discussing Mr. President’s request to the NASS on extension of emergency rule in the three Norther Eastern States of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe, lamenting the development was sad, while noting there must be limit to level of “impunity”, just as the country was being ridiculed.

In a related development, AFRICAN EXAMINER gathered that Senate President, David Mark has ordered closure of NASS as the Police have reportedly tear gas people around its premises.