NASS Crisis: Police Press Release, Photos

There was commotion at the National Assembly complex in Abuja today which according to reports, began just after the speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Aminu Tambuwal and other law makers were stopped by the State Security operatives from gaining access to the premises.

The premises of the NASS was locked by policemen and in an attempt to force their way in, some lawmakers scaled the fence, while others applied other means.

The chaos led to the firing of tear-gas by security operatives.

Due to this, Senate President David Mark has shut down the National Assembly till November 25, 2014.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria police has given an explanation for their involvement.

In a press statement signed by Ag. CP EMMANUEL C. S. OJUKWU, psc, FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, the police said:
Following an intelligence report of a likely invasion of the House of Representatives by hoodlums and thugs, the Nigeria Police Force promptly deployed its personnel to the premises to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

Consequently, the Police condoned the area and began screening of all members and visitors alike.

In the course of this lawful exercise, Alh. Aminu Tambuwal CFR, arrived the venue with a motley crowd, who broke the cordon, assaulted the Police and evaded due process and the Police had the duty to restore order and normalcy, using lawful means

The IGP seizes this medium to warn all political actors and their followers to respect constituted authority and due process and to desist from the use of thugs to pursue their agenda.

The Nigeria Police shall continually apply all lawful means to prevent a breakdown of law and order in all segments of the society and shall apply the full weight of the law on any political actor who violates the peace and security of the nation.

See photos from the crisis below