The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over plans by certain people to stage violent protests in order to discredit the Federal Government and security agencies over sundry socio-economic conditions.
DSS attributed the alleged planned ‘violent protest’ to socio-economic issues, but the presidential election petition tribunal is expected to deliver its judgement on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, less than 48 hours to the live broadcast of the judgement.
The development has made some analysts to believe the likely connection between the two events, stressing that the alarm could be possibly foreclosing likely protests emanating from the judgement.
Specifically, on Wednesday, the Election Tribunal is expected to deliver judgment on the petition filed by presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party flagbearer, Peter Obi, against the declaration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of the 2023 Election.
However, the DSS alert, which is titled: “DSS DISCOVERS PLOT TO STAGE VIOLENT PROTESTS IN THE COUNTRY,” was posted on the X handle of the security agency on Monday.
It reads: “The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby informs the public that it has uncovered plans by some elements in parts of the country to stage violent protests in order to discredit the Federal Government and security agencies over sundry socio-economic matters. Intelligence reports have indicated that the plotters include certain politicians who are desperately mobilising unsuspecting student leaders, ethnic based associations, youth and disgruntled groups for the planned action. Meanwhile, the Service has identified the ring leaders of the plot as well as sustained monitoring around them in order to deter them from plunging the country into anarchy.
“In view of this development, University Vice-Chancellors and Heads of Tertiary Institutions are advised to discourage their students from engaging in acts capable of derailing public peace. Also, parents and guardians are enjoined to admonish their children and wards respectively to shun the lure of participating in inimical behaviours or conducts against law and order.
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“While the DSS is aware of Government’s efforts and determination to resolve some of the challenges confronting the nation, it warns those desirous of subverting national security to retrace their steps. This is more so that it will not hesitate to legally come against persons and groups behind the devious plans.
“Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi
Public Relations Officer
Department of State Services
National Headquarters
Abuja.
4th September, 2023.”
There has been heightened tension of late over the impending judgement with some Nigerians coming out with various commentaries and inscriptions like, “Eye on the Judiciary” billboard, which was dismantled as well as sovenires and divisive comments on the likely outcome.