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We’re Monitoring Situation In Nigeria, Says UK Government

The British government said it was aware of media reports of the situation at the National Assembly and is “closely monitoring the situation and other political developments in Nigeria.”

The United Kingdom has said it is “monitoring the situation and other political development in Nigeria,” following the blockage of the National Assembly by officers of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a statement issued by Joe Abuku, spokesperson for the UK Embassy, on Tuesday, the UK government said it would only support democratic process in Nigeria.

“We are aware of media reports of a situation at the National Assembly this morning. We are closely monitoring the situation and other political developments in Nigeria.

“The United Kingdom supports a process whereby the people of Nigeria can exercise their democratic right to vote and be voted for. We favour a free, fair, credible and peaceful process and the independence of institutions, which allow for that.”

Some DSS officials on Tuesday barricaded entrance into the National Assembly.

The operatives, according to Rafiu Ibrahim, a Senator representing Kwara South senatorial district, said the order to restrict lawmakers into their offices came “from the above.”

However, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo said the siege at the National Assembly was unauthorised shortly after he sacked the Director General of the DSS, Lawal Daura.

Daura is from the same Local Government Area as President Muhammadu Buhari, who was reported to have approved his (Daura) sack.