The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a warning against planned protests set to occur across Nigeria in the coming weeks. The DSS has been monitoring the situation and has identified a plot by certain elements to infiltrate these protests and incite violence and chaos.
While acknowledging that peaceful protest is a democratic right, the DSS expressed concern over the political motives behind the planned demonstrations. The agency indicated that the plotters aim to exploit the protests to discredit both federal and state governments and ultimately seek a regime change at the national level.
In its investigation, the DSS has identified the funding sources, sponsors, and collaborators involved in the plot. Despite this, the agency emphasized a preference for non-violent measures and conflict resolution strategies. These include moral suasion, stakeholder engagement, and diplomatic efforts to dissuade the planners from their objectives.
The DSS cautioned all protest groups to avoid actions that could lead to chaos and violence. It urged potential protesters to engage with authorities peacefully and consider the broader implications of their actions. Highlighting the destructive consequences of violence, the DSS encouraged the use of available channels to address grievances.
The agency called on various segments of society, including leaders, industrialists, labor unions, student associations, youth leaders, civil society organizations, religious groups, NGOs, women’s groups, civil servants, and politicians, to reject any calls for participation in orchestrated violence. Parents, guardians, traditional and academic leaders were also urged to advise their wards against joining the planned protests.
The DSS assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace in collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies. It stated that it would employ all legitimate means to achieve this goal.
For further information or to report concerns, the public is encouraged to visit the DSS website (dss.gov.ng), email (dsspr@dss.gov.ng), or contact the agency via telephone at +2349153391309 or +2349088373514.
LV