‘Non-state actors inciting disaffection’ — DSS, police warn against #EndHunger protest

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.

The warning by the secret police is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by Peter Afunanya, director of public relations and strategic communications for DSS.

Some civil society organisations (CSOs) 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.”

‘DISRUPTION TO CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE WON’T BE TOLERATED’

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.

“While the NPF is committed to protecting the rights of those on peaceful protest, it will not look on to see the rights of others being violated in the name of a mass protest.

“Those who want to stage a peaceful protest are advised to inform the police and request for police protection.

“Those who do otherwise should be ready to face the full weight of the law. Members of the public are again reminded that it is a criminal offence to tamper with the national grid or prevent/disrupt the transmission of electricity.

“It is equally unacceptable to cause disruption to any other Critical Infrastructure such as airports, hospitals and other essential services, or violent picketing in whatever magnitude.”