As the Country sets to commemorate its 25th Democracy Day on June 12, the Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a stern warning against individuals and groups planning to stage a protest.
The intelligence unit on Tuesday raised the alarm over a staged protest, it said has been designed “with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day Celebration.”
The agency acknowledged the right of assembly and expression but noted that the determination by some non-state actors to incite mass disaffection through demonstrations, which may turn violent, will not be tolerated.
The DSS said, “However, it is instructive to note that violent demonstrations are at variance with the peaceful disposition of the Federal Government to amicably address all contentions including the minimum wage.
“Citizens are, therefore, called upon to resist any persuasions to be lawless or cause disorder and anarchy in the nation. Displeased persons are rather encouraged to appropriately channel their grievances through the right channels and procedures.”
The agency further reaffirmed its duty to protect the country from inimical acts being orchestrated by disgruntled groups to cause a breakdown of law and order through collaborations with relevant stakeholders and sister agencies.
“The Service, while felicitating the government and citizens on this auspicious occasion of celebrating 25 years of unbroken democracy, calls for continued patriotism, unity and commitment in building a Nigeria of our collective dream.
“Meanwhile, the DSS website, dss.gov.ng; email address- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and Telephone lines +2349153391309; +2349088373514 remain open to the public in the event that there is need to contact it.”
In past weeks, the social-economic stability of the nation has been tense, particularly with the unresolved negotiations between the Federal Government and the National Labour Congress concerning a deserving wage for the nation’s workers among other demands.
The NLC, after a week-long grace that was given to the federal government to enable an upward negotiation of the minimum wage, is likely to embark on a strike in the absence of a favourable agreement.
With this in view, President Bola Tinubu is set to address the nation on June 12 at 7 am.