Victor Ezeja
The Department of State Service (DSS), has raised the alarm about plans by political actors to incite violence in the country.
The secret service said it has observed actions of some political stakeholders that are capable of causing breakdown of law and order and warned them to desist from such.
The agency in a statement released by its spokesperson, Dr Peter Afunanya, urged all individuals aggrieved, especially about the outcome of the just concluded elections, to play by the rules of engagement and as well as approach the court of law to seek redress, rather than engaging in street actions that could degenerate into anarchy.
“The Department of State Service (DSS), again, alerts the public of plans to violently disrupt peace in the country. The Service hereby warns those desperate to cause a breakdown of law and order to desist from that.
“It would be recalled that the Service had earlier advised political players to abide by the rules of engagement as well as approach the courts for redress, if and where there are suspicions of infractions on extant electoral laws.
READ ALSO: Keyamo Petitions DSS, Seeks Arrest Of Obi, Datti Over Alleged Incitement
“It is evident that some aggrieved politicians are already taking advantage of this legal process. This, without doubt, is the beauty of democracy. It is strongly believed that this approach enhances peace and security. All and sundry should cherish it,” Afunanya stated.
The spokesperson said that the agency will not fold hands and watch individuals and groups take laws into their hands and “champion anarchy” in the country.
It warned those “peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives as basis to ignite violence or pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the Federal, State and Parliamentary levels, should stop forthwith,” adding that they gain nothing by inciting violence as it will not only consume them but also the innocent ones.
Afunanya lamented that it’s “disturbing to see respected personalities use their platforms to mislead or incite citizens. This, to say the least, does not augur well for peaceful coexistence and general order.
“Therefore, the Service will continue to take necessary measures to checkmate these elements who do not wish the country well. This is to ensure that the conducive environment is provided for citizens and residents to pursue their legitimate businesses.
“A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. Let all be guided,” Afunanya stated.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
