Check the wiring hasn't melted at fuse box because there is a permanent live current active in the lights circuit. Next I would disconnect the control stalk incase it is the problem. It may be warm to touch if it is the problem(stalk)
Still check the rest of your wiring as the stalk only breaks the circuit..was the stalk warm when you removed it? Heat would indicate it is where the problem lies. Though I would also expect it to be difficult to remove if it was.
