Kelvin Bowoto
The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged organized labor to explore negotiation and dialogue as an alternative to the planned statewide rallies against the country’s high cost of living and severe economic hardship on February 27 and 28, 2024.
The DSS acknowledged that the plan of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) was valid; nevertheless, it was critical to abandon the statewide demonstration in the interest of peace and order.
According to DSS spokesperson Dr. Peter Afunanya, the Secret Service was aware that some individuals intended to utilize the NLC/TUC protest to create conflict and, as a result, widespread violence.
The Service also urged Nigerians to give the government time to handle the current difficulties, noting that all levels of government were working hard to find solutions to the current economic challenges.
Part of the statement read: “The attention of the DSS has been directed to plans by sectors of organized labour to launch rallies across the country on February 27th and 28th, 2024, over a variety of economic difficulties. While the Service acknowledges that such action is a legal right of the labor movement, it advises the body to shelve the proposal in the interest of peace and public order.
“The DSS also encourages parties to engage in communication and negotiation rather than conduct that may exacerbate tensions. This is especially true given that the service is aware that some elements intend to take advantage of the protest to foment conflict and, as a result, widespread violence. The development will undoubtedly aggravate the country’s socioeconomic predicament.
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“It is general knowledge that all levels of government are working to improve the current economic situation and hence should be given the benefit of the doubt. So far, appropriate authorities are collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders to devise solutions to the existing problems. As a result, they should be given the opportunity to deal with the current issues.
“In this vein, residents are taught to understand that what is unresolved in peacetime will not be solved in wartime. The timeless piece ‘The Casualties’ by the famous poet JP Clark serves as a poignant reminder of the potential perils of intensified hostilities. In times of adversity, everyone will become a casualty.
“Also, ongoing global wars serve as a stark reminder of their devastating effects on the domestic environments of the affected countries, emphasizing the critical need to protect and maintain our internal stability and unity.” Those who abuse the country’s fault lines should reconsider their actions, as resorting to negativity will jeopardize our peaceful coexistence with disastrous results.
“Similarly, parents and guardians are urged to exercise authority in protecting their children and wards from harmful acts that endanger public safety and harmony. Furthermore, all sectors, including political parties, opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society, and non-governmental organizations, are urged to avoid violence and display leadership and statesmanship in these difficult times. Making political capital out of the current circumstances or engaging in divisive speech at this time will not benefit any Nigerian who values peace. Citizens are exhorted to remain cautious and not enable fifth columnists and hostile forces or agents to utilize them to disrupt the nation’s tranquility.”
The DSS also stated that it is opposed to using violence to resolve current issues, whether they are 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 went on to say.
Techrectory with Agency Report.
