DSS Warns Against Planned Nationwide Protest, Cites Risks of Violence

The Department of State Services (DSS) issued a stern warning on Thursday against the upcoming nationwide protest intended to address Nigeria’s economic hardships.

In a press statement signed by Dr. Peter Afunanya, Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, the DSS revealed it had identified the sponsors of the protest.

The agency cautioned that moving forward with the protest could be detrimental to Nigeria’s interests.

The DSS expressed concerns that the protest, meant to highlight economic grievances, could be exploited by hoodlums to incite chaos and violence across the country.

While acknowledging that protests are a constitutional right, the DSS noted that such demonstrations often spiral out of control, leading to widespread violence that endangers lives and property.

The DSS urged the organizers to reconsider their plans and explore alternative methods of raising their concerns.

The protest, branded ‘EndBadGovernance,’ is gaining significant traction on social media and is scheduled to take place from August 1 to 10 across all states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The statement read: “The DSS has monitored discussions about the planned protests by individuals and groups who have not publicly identified themselves as leaders of this movement.

“Although peaceful protest is a democratic right, the Service has identified a scheme by some elements to infiltrate the protest and use it to incite chaos and extreme violence. The motive behind the protest appears to be political.

“The instigators aim to use the anticipated violence to discredit federal and state governments, create public discontent, and push for regime change, particularly at the national level.

“The DSS has identified the funding sources, sponsors, and collaborators involved in this plot.

“However, the Service believes that aggression should not be the first response. Instead, it is employing non-kinetic strategies, such as moral suasion, stakeholder engagement, and diplomatic efforts, to deter the planners from achieving their harmful objectives.

“Therefore, the Service urges all protest groups to avoid any form of violence, anarchy, or destruction.

“Despite ongoing efforts by various government levels to address economic challenges, the DSS calls on protesters to engage with authorities peacefully and constructively.

“Violence only leads to the destruction of lives and property and serves as a distraction from effective governance.

“The DSS encourages individuals and groups to find peaceful ways to express their grievances.

“We also call on community leaders, labor unions, student associations, civil society, religious organizations, NGOs, women’s groups, civil servants, and politicians to reject any invitation to participate in orchestrated violence intended to sow discord.

“Parents, guardians, and heads of educational and traditional institutions are urged to advise their children, wards, and students against participating in the planned protest. Let us all work together to build a nation free from conflict and division.

“The DSS, in collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies, will take all necessary measures to maintain peace and address any disruptions effectively.”