The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to abandon its planned nationwide protest.
The NLC had declared a two-day nationwide mass protest on February 27 and 28, 2024, in response to Nigerians’ economic hardship.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Peter Afunanya, DSS director of communications, stated that while the service recognises the NLC’s right to protest, congress should postpone the planned demonstration for the sake of peace and public order.
Afunanya stated that the DSS is aware that some elements intend to use the protest to “foment crisis and, by extension, widespread violence”.
He also stated that this would exacerbate the socioeconomic situation throughout the country.
The statement reads:
“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions.”
“It is common knowledge that all levels of Government are striving to ameliorate the prevailing economic condition and as such, should be given a benefit of the doubt.
“So far, appropriate authorities are working assiduously with a spectrum of stakeholders to fashion out modalities to address the current difficulties. They should, therefore, be given the chance to handle the challenges at hand.
“In this vein, citizens are encouraged to recognise that what remains unsolved in peacetime, would not be attained in wartime.
“The timeless piece of the esteemed Poet, JP Clark, “The Casualties” is a resonating reminder to us of the possible dangers of escalated conflicts. In times of trouble, everyone will be a casualty.
“Also, ongoing wars in the global scene are a stark reminder of their catastrophic repercussions on the affected countries’ domestic environments thus, the critical need to protect and maintain our internal stability and unity.
“Those exploiting the fault lines in the country need to have a rethink as resorting to negativities will endanger our peaceful coexistence with dire consequences.”
“Making political capital out of the current situation or involving in divisive utterances at a time like this, will be of no benefit to any peace-loving Nigerian.”
“Citizens are advised to be vigilant and not allow fifth columnists and hostile forces or agents to use them to destabilise the peace of the nation.
“The DSS stands opposed to violence as a means of settling our present-day challenges, be they economic, political or otherwise.
“Accordingly, the Service will work with sister security and law enforcement agencies to ensure that lasting peace is maintained in the country.”