Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has raised concerns about upcoming protests planned across the country. While acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly, the DSS warns of potential infiltration by “criminal elements” aiming to incite violence and chaos. The agency suggests the protests may be politically motivated, with a goal of undermining the government and sparking regime change.
Despite uncovering “funding lines, sponsors, and collaborators” behind the protests, the DSS emphasizes a preference for de-escalation. They’ve reportedly utilized “moral suasion, stakeholder engagement, and multi-track diplomatic shuttles” to dissuade organizers from carrying out their plans.
The agency urges all protest groups to express their grievances peacefully, highlighting the destructive nature of violence and its potential to derail governance. They encourage protesters to utilize available channels to voice their concerns without resorting to disruptive actions.
The DSS extends a broad call to action, urging “people of goodwill, leaders of thought, captains of industry, labor unions, student associations, youth leaders, civil society, clergy, NGOs, women’s groups, civil servants, and politicians” to reject involvement in any violence orchestrated to destabilize the nation. Parents, guardians, and educators are also implored to advise their dependents against participation.
The statement concludes with a call for national unity: “Let us all join hands to build a Nation without rancour, bitterness or stained banner.”
The DSS assures collaboration with other security agencies to maintain peace and enforce the law if necessary. They also provide contact information for the public to report any concerns.
