DSS Warns Against Inflammatory Statements in Imo, Bayelsa, Kogi Elections

The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned individuals against making inflammatory statements and false narratives that can cause division and animosity among Nigerians.

The DSS, in a statement by its spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, made this known as the country prepare for the governorship elections in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo States on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

According to Afunanya, the DSS has observed rising trends and patterns of incendiary comments by some personalities of influence and representatives of non-governmental entities within and outside the country.

He said such statements run against public peace and harmony.

“It is strongly believed that a resort to acerbic pronouncements by certain persons will not only heat up the polity but set the ground for deep-seated animosities and divisions among the populace.

“Also, it serves the country no good if its own citizens, whether at home or abroad, demarket or subvert her through misleading and false narratives.

“With the elections and the attendant contentions legally over, it is expected that we should forge ahead in nation-building without rancour or acrimony.

“This is against the backdrop that reckless rhetoric has the capacity to lead to social unrest and instability, which can put the country’s well-being and the general safety of citizens at risk.”

Afunanya stated that the service urges key players and their supporters in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa States to conform to the rules of engagement and specifically the electoral law during the 11th November, 2023 gubernatorial elections in the areas.

He said the aim is to avert situations likely to undermine the processes, explaining that the service has substantially liaised with INEC, sister security agencies and relevant NGOs to ensure hitch-free exercises in the affected states.

“The Service, therefore, implores all stakeholders, irrespective of their political affiliations or grievances, to engage in respectful and constructive conversations that promote collective understanding.

“It has thus become imperative that public commentaries shift towards unity and peace necessary for national development and security. This should be our shared responsibility and indeed the priority of everyone.”

He advised that those on election duties, including the media and civil society, are encouraged to avoid things that will inflame sentiments and cause a breakdown of law and order.