The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups planning to stage protests on June 12, Democracy Day, urging them to avoid any violent or disruptive actions.
In a statement released on Tuesday night, Dr. Peter Afunanya, Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, conveyed the agency’s concerns and intentions to safeguard public order and national security.
The DSS statement revealed that it has received intelligence on plans to incite violence and disrupt public order during the planned protests.
The security agency emphasized its commitment to maintaining peace and urged citizens to resist any attempts to engage in lawless activities.
“The attention of the Department of State Services (DSS) has been drawn to plans by certain individuals and groups to stage physical protests in some parts of the country on June 12, 2024.
These protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day celebration,” Afunanya stated.
He acknowledged the citizens’ rights to assembly and expression but cautioned that these freedoms should not be exploited to undermine public safety.
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“While citizens may have the right to assembly and expression, such freedoms should not be used to undermine public safety and national security.
The determination by some non-state actors to incite mass disaffection through demonstrations that may turn violent will not be tolerated,” he added.
The DSS urged citizens to resist any encouragement to participate in disorderly conduct and advised those with grievances to use appropriate channels to express their concerns.
“Citizens are, therefore, called upon to resist any persuasions to be lawless or cause disorder and anarchy in the nation.
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Displeased persons are rather encouraged to appropriately channel their grievances through the right channels and procedures,” Afunanya said.
As Nigeria marks 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, the DSS calls for continued patriotism and unity among the populace.
“The Service, while felicitating with the government and citizens on this auspicious occasion of celebrating 25 years of unbroken democracy, calls for continued patriotism, unity, and commitment to building a Nigeria of our collective dream,” the statement continued.
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The DSS assured the public of its ongoing efforts, in collaboration with other security agencies, to maintain peace and protect lives and property across the nation. “The Service… will sustain collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, including sister security agencies, to maintain peace as well as protect lives and property across the nation.
Law-abiding citizens are enjoined to go about their businesses without fear,” Afunanya concluded.