DSS issues strong warning regarding Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo gubernatorial polls, cautioning against inflammatory comments

A growing number of offensive utterances attributed to prominent Nigerians have drawn criticism from the Department of State Services (DSS).

The DSS declared on Thursday that it would not back down and permit such people to throw the nation into chaos in a statement that was signed by Peter Afunanya, director of public relations and strategic communications.

The governorship elections in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa states are scheduled for this Saturday. The Nigerian secret police have also cautioned politicians and other interested parties against doing any actions that could jeopardise peace and security.

According to the statement, the Department of State Services (DSS) has noted an increase in the frequency of provocative remarks made by influential individuals and representatives of non-governmental organisations both domestically and abroad. Such remarks are contrary to the harmony and quiet of the public.

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“It is firmly held that the use of caustic remarks by some will not only inflame political tensions but also lay the foundation for enduring resentment and rifts among the public. Furthermore, the country loses out when its own people destabilise or demarket her by spreading incorrect and misleading stories, both domestically and internationally.

It is expected that we would move forward with nation-building without animosity or bitterness now that the elections and the related legal disputes have passed. This is against the background that rash rhetoric has the potential to cause social upheaval and instability, endangering the welfare of the nation and the public’s safety in general.

“In a similar vein, the Service requests that major players and those who support them in the states of Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa adhere to the electoral law and the norms of engagement when participating in the upcoming governor’s race on November 11, 2023. Preventing circumstances that could jeopardise the procedures is the goal. The Service has so far maintained close communication with INEC, sister security agencies, and pertinent non-governmental organisations to guarantee seamless exercises in the impacted States.

Accordingly, the Service asks all parties involved—regardless of their political inclinations or grievances—to have civil and productive discussions that advance understanding among all. Thus, it is now essential that discourse in the public sphere focus on peace and unity, which are essential for both national growth and security. Everyone should prioritise this, and it should be our shared responsibility.

“People working on election tasks, such as the media and civil society, are urged to stay away from anything that could stoke division and undermine law and order. Manipulation should not be used in broadcast or monitoring activities. Politics should not be used to damage the nation or any portion of it, stakeholders are urged to remember.

However, those people or organisations that choose to carry out illegal activities or behave in a way that is contrary to public order will face severe consequences as prescribed by the law. Preemptive action prevents harm.

As a result, people are urged to embrace their country and to be patriotic, understanding that these feelings should go beyond personal or regional interests. We are all urged to put aside our resentment and encourage communication that advances our country. Our cherished nation can have a better and more secure future if we work together.