The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged all sections of organised labour to shelve the plan to stage nationwide protests in the interest of peace and public order.
The DSS gave the urge as it said that its attention had been drawn to plans by the body to stage the protests on February 27 and 28, 2024, in parts of the country over the pains and hardship caused by economic issues, as well as insecurity across the nation.
The DSS spokesman, Dr Peter Afunanya, in a statement on Wednesday, February 21, said that the security agency recognises such action as the legitimate right of the labour movement, but called on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation, rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions.
“The Service is aware that some elements are planning to use the opportunity of the protest to foment crisis and by extension, widespread violence.
“The development, without doubt, will worsen the socio-economic situation across the country.
“It is common knowledge that all levels of government are striving to ameliorate the prevailing economic condition and, as such, should be given a benefit of the doubt.
“So far, appropriate authorities are working assiduously with a spectrum of stakeholders to fashion out modalities to address the current difficulties.
“They should, therefore, be given the chance to handle the challenges at hand.
“In this vein, citizens are encouraged to recognise that what remains unsolved in peace time, would not be attained in war time.
“The timeless piece of the esteemed Poet, JP Clark, “The Casualties” is a resonating reminder to us on the possible dangers of escalated conflicts. In time of trouble, everyone will be a casualty.
“Also, ongoing wars in the global scene is a stark reminder of their catastrophic repercussions on the affected countries’ domestic environments thus, the critical need to protect and maintain our internal stability and unity.
“Those exploiting the fault lines in the country need to have a rethink as resort to negativities will endanger our peaceful coexistence with dire consequences,” the statement read.
Parents and guardians were also implored to exert authority in guiding their children and wards from inimical acts capable of jeopardising public safety and harmony.
In addition, all sectors, including political parties, opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society and non-governmental bodies were advised to eschew violence as well as demonstrate leadership and statesmanship in these challenging times.
The statement read further: “Making political capital out of the current situation or involving in divisive utterances at a time like this, will be of no benefit to any peace-loving Nigerian.
“Citizens are advised to be vigilant and not allow fifth columnists and hostile forces or agents to use them to destabilise the peace of the nation.
“The DSS stands opposed to violence as a means of settling our present day challenges, be they economic, political or otherwise.
“Accordingly, the Service will work with sister security and law enforcement agencies to ensure that lasting peace is maintained in the country.”
