The Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria is urging the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reconsider their planned nationwide protests on February 27 and 28.
The protests aim to address the hardships and increasing cost of living in the country.
While recognizing the right of the labor movement to protest, the DSS is encouraging them to prioritize dialogue and negotiation over demonstrations to prevent potential tensions and violence.
The DSS is concerned that some individuals may take advantage of the protests to cause chaos and escalate violence, making the socio-economic situation worse.
The DSS highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle economic challenges and asked citizens to allow authorities to handle the current difficulties.
The security agency urged political parties, opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society, and citizens to avoid violence and instead work towards peace during difficult times.
“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 destabilize 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,” DSS Director of Public Relations & Strategic Communications, Peter Afunanya, said in the statement.
