The Department of State Service (DSS) has warned politicians and their supporters against fake news, and hate speeches that may be inimical to peaceful co-existence, particularly as the nation is warming up for the governorship and state assembly election.
A statement by Peter Afunanya, Ph.D., Public Relations Officer, Department of State Services National Headquarters Abuja. 8th March 2023, urges party supporters to engage constructively adding that Election should not be seen as a do-or-die affair.
He, therefore, advised that no one should take laws into their hands, rather they should approach the court for dispute resolution.
“The Department of State Services (DSS) alerts the public of orchestrated plans by some persons to cause a total breakdown of law and order in the country.
“It also wishes to draw attention to the unnecessary palpable political tension in parts of the country before the elections under reference. It is observed that some of the players are at daggers drawn with one another. The development holds dire consequences for national peace and stability.
“Over this election period, the Service has remained committed to providing a conducive environment for a peaceful exercise. In this regard, it separately and in collaboration with sister agencies, carried out mop-up operations to thwart nefarious plans and activities of undesirable elements to outrightly undermine the electoral processes. For hitch-free gubernatorial and State Assembly elections, the Service has partnered with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the required peace is maintained before, during, and after the exercises.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Service will work to make sure that no person or group, no matter how highly placed, disrupts the scheduled elections in any part of the Federation. It is committed to the safety and security of citizens who may wish to go out to exercise their civic responsibility. All and sundry are, therefore, enjoined to abide by the rules of engagement particularly the Electoral Act and extant guidelines.” It further appealed to parties and their supporters to have faith in the institutions for fair justice.
