2023: Resist temptation by selfish individuals to cause disharmony—DSS tells media, Nigerians

***Warns against thuggery

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

As political gladiators in the country brace up to garner support for 2023 elections, the Department of States Services (DSS), has called on the Nigerian media and members of the public not to allow themselves to be used by selfish individuals to cause disharmony.

The DSS Spokesperson, Peter Afunanya made the call yesterday while briefing journalists at the headquarters of the service in Abuja.

“It has become necessary to address you as partners on the need to promote peace and encourage Nigerians to see themselves as brothers and sister.

“As journalists, you set agenda for people to follow. Let the agenda be based on peace and harmony.

“You should not allow selfish individuals desiring of causing disharmony in the country to take your media space. We urge you to stand against fake news and any information that is not in the interests of Nigerians.”

While urging politicians to play by the rules, he urged members of the public against violence and thuggery, saying the service will crush all elements of violence in the country.

“Let’s rise and defeat violence, crime and sabotage against the peace of our nation. Nigeria is the only country we have.

We must do everything to keep it united. We must avoid any act that promotes hate and disintegration.”

Afunanya said there should be no space for separatist movement, terrorism, fake news, hate spech, religious bigotry and any act that tends to divide Nigeria.

“Educate your staff and family particularly on measures to safeguard information and report security breaches.

“Apply relevant legal security guidelines to protect yourselves and your neighbours.

While calling on Nigerians to be vigilant an report all suspicious movements and persons to the security agencies, he said the DSS will work with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders in the country to ensure peace.