By Joke Kujenya
THE DEPARTMENT of State Services (DSS) says it has monitored discussions on upcoming protests across Nigeria by unidentified individuals and groups.
While recognizing the right to peaceful protest, the DSS discloses it has uncovered plans by certain elements to exploit these protests to incite chaos and extreme violence.
The motivation behind these protests is political, aiming to discredit the federal and state governments and ultimately achieve regime change.
The DSS also notes it has identified the funding sources, sponsors, and collaborators behind the plot.
Instead of resorting to aggression, the Service has employed conflict resolution strategies, including moral persuasion, stakeholder engagement, and diplomatic efforts, to deter the planners from their objectives.
The DSS urges all protest groups to avoid violence and anarchy. Despite ongoing efforts by the government to address economic concerns, the Service advises potential protesters to engage peacefully with authorities.
Violence, the DSS warns, leads to destruction and hinders governance.
The DSS calls on leaders, industry captains, labor unions, student associations, youth leaders, civil society, clergy, NGOs, women’s groups, civil servants, and politicians to reject invitations to participate in orchestrated violence.
Parents, guardians, traditional and academic heads are urged to counsel their wards against joining the planned protests.
The Service emphasizes the need for national unity without rancor or violence.
The DSS, in collaboration with other security agencies, is committed to maintaining peace and will use all legitimate means to do so.
The public can contact the DSS via its website (dss.gov.ng), email (dsspr@dss.gov.ng), or phone lines (+2349153391309, +2349088373514) for further information or to report concerns.
