Mohammed Husaini
The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned against inflammatory statements, saying it has observed rising trends and patterns of incendiary comments by some personalities of influence and representatives of non-governmental entities within and outside the country.
The DSS made the observation in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Service, Peter Afunanya.
DSS CAUTIONS AGAINST INFLAMMATORY STATEMENTS
—- Calls for Peace During the Elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa StatesThe Department of State Services (DSS) has observed rising trends and patterns of incendiary comments by some personalities of influence and representatives of…
— Department of State Services (DSS) (@OfficialDSSNG) November 9, 2023
The DSS said it strongly believed that a resort to acerbic pronouncements by certain persons will not only heat up the polity but set the ground for deep-seated animosities and divisions among the populace.
The statement also said that it serves the country no good, if its own citizens, whether at home or abroad, demarket or subvert her through misleading and false narratives.
“With the elections and the attendant contentions legally over, it is expected that we should forge ahead in nation-building without rancour or acrimony.
“This is against the backdrop that reckless rhetorics have the capacity to lead to social unrest and instability, which can put the country’s well-being and the general safety of citizens at risk,” said the DSS.
Off-cycle Guber Elections
Similarly, the Service urged key players and their supporters in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa States to conform to the rules of engagement and specifically the electoral law during the 11th November, 2023 gubernatorial elections in the areas.
The aim is to avert situations likely to undermine the processes. So far, the Service said it has substantially liaised with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), sister security agencies and relevant NGOs to ensure hitch-free exercises in the affected states.
The Service, therefore, implores all stakeholders, irrespective of their political affiliations or grievances, to engage in respectful and constructive conversations that promote collective understanding.
“It has thus become imperative that public commentaries should shift towards unity and peace necessary for national development and security. This should be our shared responsibility and indeed the priority of everyone,” said the DSS.
It charged those on election duties, including the media and civil society, to avoid things that could inflame sentiments and cause a breakdown of law and order.
It stressed that broadcast and monitoring activities should be devoid of manipulations.
“Stakeholders are enjoined to note that politics should not be used to destroy the country or any part of it.
“However, individuals or groups that may decide to engage in illegitimate acts or inimical conducts to public order will be decisively dealt with as dictated by the law. Forewarned is forearmed.
“Consequently, citizens are encouraged to be patriotic as well as recognize that our loyalty and love to the nation should transcend individual or parochial interests.
“Everyone is called upon to eschew bitterness and promote dialogue that contributes to the progress of the nation.
“Together, we can build a stronger and more secure future for our beloved country,” said the DSS.
