The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a stern warning to electorates, politicians, and influential people across the three states ahead of Saturday’s off-cycle governorship elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa State to refrain from engaging in unlawful or disruptive behaviour that could jeopardise public order.
The secret police have warned that anyone caught will face harsh legal penalties.
According to Anaedoonline.ng, the DSS has warned important players and supporters in the governorship elections to follow the existing norms of engagement and avoid activities that could disrupt the democratic processes.
The DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunaya, raised worry in a statement released on Thursday about the increasing incidence of provocative remarks made by powerful figures and representatives of non-governmental organisations both within and outside the country.
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The DSS emphasised that uttering such incendiary utterances violates the ideals of public peace and harmony. According to Afunaya, the use of harsh and critical words by some persons is widely regarded to not only exacerbate political tensions but also to generate long-term enmity and rifts among the people.
He emphasised that it is damaging to the nation’s interests if its inhabitants, whether domestically or globally dwelling, promote false and deceptive information that undermine or damage the country’s reputation.
The statement reads: “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 rhetorics have 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.
“Similarly, 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. The aim is to avert situations likely to undermine the processes. So far, the Service has substantially liaised with INEC, sister security agencies and relevant NGOs to ensure hitch-free exercises in the affected States.
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“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 should shift towards unity and peace necessary for national development and security. This should be our shared responsibility and, indeed, the priority of everyone.
“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. Broadcast and monitoring activities should be devoid of manipulations. Stakeholders are enjoined to note that politics should not be used to destroy the country or any part of it.
“However, individuals or groups that may decide to engage in illegitimate acts or inimical conducts to public order will be decisively dealt with as dictated by the law. Forewarned is forearmed.
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“Consequently, citizens are encouraged to be patriotic as well as recognise that our loyalty and love to the nation should transcend individual or parochial interests. Everyone is called upon to eschew bitterness and promote dialogue that contributes to the progress of the nation. Together, we can build a stronger and more secure future for our beloved country.”
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