The Department of State Services has issued a warning against making provocative statements ahead of the upcoming off-cycle elections in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States.
This was contained in a statement by Peter Afunanya, the Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Department of State Services National Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday.
Afunanya stated, “It is strongly believed that resorting to acerbic pronouncements by certain individuals will not only heat up the political atmosphere but also create deep-seated animosities and divisions among the people. It is also detrimental to the country if its citizens, whether at home or abroad, undermine or misrepresent it through misleading and false narratives.”
DSS has noticed an increase in incendiary comments made by influential individuals and representatives of non-governmental entities within and outside the country.
These statements are deemed to be against public peace and harmony. The DSS has urged political players and their supporters in the three states to adhere to the rules of engagement and electoral laws to prevent any situations that could undermine the electoral processes.
Afunanya also stated that anyone engaging in illegitimate acts or actions that could disrupt public order will face legal consequences.
He emphasized the collaboration between the DSS, the Independent National Electoral Commission other security agencies, and relevant NGOs to ensure smooth and seamless elections in these states.
The DSS reiterated its call for all key players and their supporters to abide by the rules of engagement and the electoral law during the gubernatorial elections on November 11, 2023.
