DSS, police warn against protests during Democracy Day celebration

The Department of State Service, DSS and the police have warned those planning to stage protests in some parts of the country on Tuesday during the celebration of Democracy Day to desist from such acts.

Peter Afunanya, director of public relations and strategic communications for DSS in a statement said that some civil society organisations are planning to stage protests in some parts of the country on Wednesday against what they described as rising hunger in the country.

The DSS spokesperson said some non-state actors are determined to incite mass disaffection through demonstrations that could turn violent. Afunanya urged Nigerians to resist any persuasions to be lawless or cause disorder and anarchy in the nation.

“The protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day celebration,” the statement reads.

“While citizens may have the rights of assembly and expression, such freedoms should not be used to undermine public safety and national security.

“The determination by some non-state actors to incite mass disaffection through demonstrations that may turn violent will not be tolerated.

“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.

“Consequently, the DSS reaffirms its unequivocal position to protect the country from inimical acts being orchestrated by disgruntled groups to cause a breakdown of law and order.”

Also, Muyiwa Adejobi, the force spokesperson, said in a statement that the police would not tolerate any disruption to the critical infrastructure, or actions capable of jeopardising public safety during the protest.

Adejobi said the police would protect the rights of those who engage in peaceful protest but would not tolerate violent demonstrations.

“The Nigeria police will protect the rights of all citizens including those on peaceful protest,” the statement reads.

“However, no decent society anywhere in the world will tolerate violent destruction of lives and properties in the name of a protest.