The Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned people and groups preparing to demonstrate on June 12, Democracy Day, to refrain from any violent or disruptive behaviour.
In a statement issued Tuesday night and signed by Dr Peter Afunanya, Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, the DSS stated that it has acquired intelligence on plots to encourage violence and disturb public order during protests.
The security service committed to safeguard public safety and national security, and asked residents to reject any attempts to do illegal activities.
The DSS also urged unsatisfied individuals to file concerns using proper routes and processes.
Afunanya said:
“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 12th June 2024. These protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day Celebration.
“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.
“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.
“The Service, while felicitating 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 Service…will sustain collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, including sister security agencies, to maintain the peace as well as protect lives and property across the nation. Law-abiding citizens are enjoined to go about their businesses without fear.”
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cc: Vanguard Ng
