The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups planning to stage protests during the celebration of Democracy Day on Tuesday.
The warning was communicated through a statement issued in Abuja by Peter Afunanya, the DSS Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications.
This caution comes in response to plans by several civil society organizations (CSOs) to protest on Wednesday against the escalating hunger in the country.
The DSS has expressed concerns over non-state actors aiming to “incite mass disaffection through demonstrations” that could potentially escalate into violence.
“The protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day celebration,” the statement reads. Afunanya emphasized that while citizens have the rights to assembly and expression, these freedoms should not be exercised in ways that jeopardize public safety and national security.
“While citizens may have the rights of 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. Afunanya stated.
“However, it is instructive to note that violent demonstrations are at variance with the peaceful disposition of the Federal Government to amicably address all contentions including the minimum wage.
“Citizens are, therefore, called upon to resist any persuasions to be lawless or cause disorder and anarchy in the nation.
“Displeased persons are rather encouraged to appropriately channel their grievances through the right channels and procedures.
“Consequently, the DSS reaffirms its unequivocal position to protect the country from inimical acts being orchestrated by disgruntled groups to cause a breakdown of law and order,” Afunanya stated.
