The Department of State Services (DSS) has called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to shelve its planned two – day nationwide protest. for February 27 and 28, 2024, over the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
The DSS in a statement by Peter Afunanya, Director of Communications, on Wednesday urged the union to seek dialogue in settling the present challenges rather than embarking on protest saying that it is aware that negative forces who are bent on destabilising the nation are planning to take advantage of the strike to cause trouble in the land.
“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions,”
Afunaya said government at all levels are not resting to address the current economic challenges adding that peace is far more preferred than war as ongoing wars around the world reveal.
“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.”
Afunaya urged parents and guardians to guide their children and wards from acts capable of jeopardising public safety and harmony.
The Director also called on political parties, opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society and non governmental bodies, to eschew violence and demonstrate leadership in these challenging times saying divisive utterances will not be of any help to anyone
“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.”The statement added.
