The government had earlier declared Wednesday as public holiday to celebrate Democracy Day.
Nigeria’s secret police, Department of State Services (DSS) has warned citizens against planned protests on Wednesday, June 12, Democracy Day.
The government had earlier declared Wednesday as public holiday to celebrate Democracy Day.
In a press statement issued by the DSS Director, PR & Strategic Communications, Peter Afunanya, on Wednesday, the secret police alleged that some non-state actors were planning to cause violence in certain parts of the country under the guise of engaging in peaceful protests.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that Nigerian civil societies, including the Take-It-Back Movement, African Action Congress party, and others, have planned a mass nationwide protest on June 12 against hardship and hunger under President Bola Tinubu's government.
They blame the removal of the fuel subsidy for the skyrocketing prices of goods and services, making life unaffordable for average Nigerians. The groups accuse the government and its associates of corruption and living in luxury while citizens suffer.
They urged Nigerians to join the peaceful protest to demand systemic change and reclaim their country from exploitative elites.
However, the DSS urged Nigerians to go about their business without fear of being attacked, adding that its personnel would collaborate with other security agencies to protect lives and property nationwide.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Department of State Services (DSS) has been drawn to plans by certain individuals and groups to stage physical protests in some parts of the country on 12th June, 2024.
“The protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day Celebration. 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. It will also sustain collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, including sister security agencies, to maintain the peace as well as protect lives and property across the nation. Law abiding citizens are enjoined to go about their businesses without fear.
“The Service, while felicitating the government and citizens on this auspicious occasion of celebrating 25 years of unbroken democracy, calls for continued patriotism, unity and commitment in building a Nigeria of our collective dream.”
“Meanwhile, the DSS website, dss.gov.ng; email address- [email protected] and Telephone lines +2349153391309; +2349088373514 remain open to the public in the event that there is need to contact it,” it added.