BY AMOS DUNIA, ABUJA – The Department of State Services (DSS), on Wednesday warned individuals and groups involved drumming embers of tribal and ethnic divisive acts and tendencies to desist forthwith.
The DSS also said that it is determined to ensure that the tribal chauvinists and mischief makers do not continue to exploit socio-political differences and the internet platforms to threaten the peace and stability of the country
This is as it said that it has arrested some persons involved in skewing historical narratives to suit their objective of masterminding ethnic violence in the country, stressing that it would sustain the apprehension and prosecution of defaulters.
It said that said that in view of its mandate to detect and prevent crimes against the country’s internal security, it remains committed to the indissolubility and indivisibility of the country as enshrined in the Constitution.
The DSS said that the activities of such persons are reflected in the misleading statements and articles being circulated among unsuspecting members of the public, adding that such inciting materials oftentimes are designed to make or convey false accusations by one group against the other.
The Service in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Peter Afunanya, said it has observed with concern, the deliberate plots and attempts by some subversive and undemocratic elements to incite or pit one ethnic group against the other by stoking the embers of tribal sentiments to cause disaffection and violence across the country.
The statement further said; “Findings revealed that these unpatriotic actors make unguarded public statements and/or use the social media platforms to instill fear in the minds of citizens.”
Accordingly, the DSS affirmed its avowed dedication to the protection of democracy in Nigeria, saying that in this regard, it will continue to sustain its position on positively and gainfully engaging stakeholders while undertaking appropriate security measures against the undesirable characters whose preoccupation is planning to cause a breakdown of law and order in the country.
Afunanaya further said; “Community leaders and persons of influence are, therefore, enjoined to be most responsible in their utterances as well as rein in (their) people for national cohesion and peaceful co-existence.
“Aggrieved persons and groups are encouraged to use dialogue as a true means of non-violent resolution of disputes or any misgivings. It is believed that only when the country is united that she can achieve her greatness. It is also instructive to know that no country develops in an environment of chaos.”
