DSS warns against unguarded statements on social media

The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned against the unguarded public statements and use of social media platforms to spread fear.

A press statement by DSS Public Relations Officer (PRO), Peter Afunanya, Thursday in Abuja, said: “The DSS 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.

“Findings revealed that these unpatriotic actors make unguarded public statements or use the social media platforms to instil fear in the minds of citizens.

These are reflected in the misleading statements and articles being circulated among unsuspecting members of the public. Such inciting materials oftentimes are designed to make or convey false accusations by one group against the other. “They also resort to skewing historical narratives to suit their objective of masterminding ethnic violence in the nation. So far, some of the culprits have been arrested.”

Afunanya further stated that: “In view of the service’s mandate to detect and prevent crimes against the country’s internal security, it reiterates its commitment to the indissolubility and indivisibility of the country as enshrined in the constitution.

“Similarly, it affirms its avowed dedication to the protection of democracy in Nigeria. 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.”

He said, “The Service hereby warns individuals or groups involved in these divisive acts and tendencies to desist forthwith.

“While 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, it will, however, sustain the apprehension and prosecution of defaulters.”

The spokesperson enjoined community leaders and persons of influence to be, “most responsible in their utterances as well as rein in their people for national cohesion and peaceful co-existence.”

He said aggrieved individuals and groups are encouraged to use dialogue as means of dispute, noting that: “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.”

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