PBA ReporterAs Nigerians prepare for the yuletide, the Department of State Services (DSS) has called for peace and good conduct across the country, even as the Service pledged collaboration with all relevant agencies to ensure there is law and order.
A statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of DSS, Dr Peter Afunanya, and made available to Prime Business Africa, enjoined ”citizens and residents alike to be of good conduct for public peace and order.”
Afunanya specifically requested religious and political bodies/leaders to preach peaceful coexistence, tolerance and unity and enlighten members on safety measures during and after the season.
According to the DSS, the advice becomes necessary considering that criminal elements might want to capitalise on the festivities to wreak havoc or harm unsuspecting members of the public.
In view of the fact that politicians are expected to ramp up campaigns during the yuletide, Afunanya called on campaigners to play by the rules of engagement as stipulated by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the (amended) 2022 Electoral Act.
Details of what the DSS is requesting of Nigerians at yuletide:
”They should shun fake news, hate speech, violence and acts inimical to national security,” Afunanya said.
”In the same vein, players in the socio-economic sector are enjoined to avoid manipulative tendencies that could result in undue price hikes, artificial scarcity of products/goods and situations that may lead to heightened tensions.
”On the side of the media and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the Service urges them to be objective and patriotic in the discharge of their roles. They should understand that the practice of their trade(s) could be more result-oriented in an atmosphere of peace. As critical stakeholders in nation building and national security management, they need to consider Nigeria first before any other interest(s).
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”To sustain national stability, the Service will continue to carryout its duties and responsibilities in line with global best practices as they affect human rights and rule of law. This is despite calculated efforts by some interest groups to create impression that persons arrested by the Service are either not taken care of or denied access to their families and/or legal representatives. It is instructive to note that the Service has a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on suspect handling. It considers this and general care of suspects sacrosanct and a priority. This can undoubtedly be attested by those that had passed through its holding facilities.
”For every suspect under its detention, the Service allows a family and/or legal representative, who fulfilled all the processes and clearance procedures, access to such a suspect. The public may note that the Service does not carry out illegal arrests or undertake enforced disappearances of innocent persons. It also does not operate illegal detention camps. Its operations and activities are rule-based and governed by transparent and accountable legal processes. The DSS, therefore enjoins those opposed to its lawful position on issues to approach the court for redress.
”For emphasis, everyone is encouraged to live in peace and good neighbourliness but should, however, be conscious of his/her environment. People should desist from false and deliberate narratives and actions that may incite the populace against itself or the government. While the Service reiterates its partnership with sister agencies to ensure adequate security before, during and after the yuletide and election seasons, residents are advised to report any information of relevance to the appropriate security and law enforcement agencies.
”Once again, the DGSS, Alhaji Y.M Bichi, CFR, fwc, Management and Staff of the DSS wish all and sundry, fruitful and peaceful celebrations. Happy New Year in advance!”
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