Democracy Day: DSS warns against violent protests
The Department of State Services has said it had received information about plans by certain individuals and groups to hold protests in several parts of the country on Democracy Day.
The service explained that the protesters intentionally scheduled the protest to align with democracy day celebrations for malicious purposes.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications of the service, Peter Afunanya, said the right to assembly guaranteed by the constitution should not be used to undermine national security.
He stressed that the plans by some non-state actors to cause widespread dissatisfaction through potentially violent protests would be met with zero tolerance.
The statement read, “The 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. The protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day Celebration. 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. ”
Afunanya also called on the citizens to reject offers to cause disorder in the country.
He said, “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.”
He noted that the service was committed to protecting the nation against disgruntled groups.
Afunanya added, “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. It will also 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.”
