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‘Ridiculous’: Nigerians Kick As DSS Asks Organised Labour To ‘Shun Protest In Interest Of Peace’

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9 months ago

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Department of State Services (DSS) has called on the organised labour to shelve its plan to hold a two-day nationwide protest, prompting angry reactions from some Nigerians on social media.

The DSS made the plea in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, on Wednesday.

The organised labour had called for a nationwide protest between 27th and 28th February, 2024 in parts of the country over sundry economic issues.

The call came as Nigerians grappled with high cost of living and dwindling purchasing power as the minimum wage has stagnated at N30,000 since 2019.

Reacting to the planned labour protest, the DSS called on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation “rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions.”

The secret police also advocated against the use of violent means in seeking an end to current economic challenges.

“The attention of the Department of State Services (DSS) has been drawn to plans by sections of the organised labour to stage protests between 27th and 28th February, 2024 in parts of the country over sundry economic issues. While the Service recognises such action as the legitimate right of the labour movement, it, however, urges the body to shelve the plan in the interest of peace and public order,” the statement reads.

DSS

“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions. This is more so that the Service is aware that some elements are planning to use the opportunity of the protest to foment crisis and by extension, widespread violence. The development, without doubt, will worsen the socio-economic situation across the country.

“It is common knowledge that all levels of Government are striving to ameliorate the prevailing economic condition and as such, should be given a benefit of the doubt. So far, appropriate authorities are working assiduously with a spectrum of stakeholders to fashion out modalities to address the current difficulties. They should, therefore, be given the chance to handle the challenges at hand.

“In this vein, citizens are encouraged to recognise that what remains unsolved in peace time, would not be attained in war-time. The timeless piece of the esteemed Poet, JP Clark, “The Casualties” is a resonating reminder to us on the possible dangers of escalated conflicts. In time of trouble, everyone will be a casualty.

“Also, ongoing wars in the global scene is a stark reminder of their catastrophic repercussions on the affected countries’ domestic environments thus, the critical need to protect and maintain our internal stability and unity. Those exploiting the fault lines in the country need to have a rethink as resort to negativities will endanger our peaceful coexistence with dire consequences.

“Similarly, parents and guardians are implored to exert authority in guiding their children and wards from inimical acts capable of jeopardising public safety and harmony.

“Additionally, all sectors, including political parties, opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society and non-governmental bodies are called upon to eschew violence; demonstrate leadership and statesmanship in these challenging times.

“Making political capital out of the current situation or involving in divisive utterances at a time like this, will be of no benefit to any peace-loving Nigerian. Citizens are advised to be vigilant and not allow fifth columnists and hostile forces or agents to use them to destabilise the peace of the nation.

“The DSS stands opposed to violence as a means of settling our present day challenges, be they economic, political or otherwise. Accordingly, the Service will work with sister security and law enforcement agencies to ensure that lasting peace is maintained in the country.”

It is not clear why the DSS inserted itself in a labour issue, but the Nigerian constitution gives every Nigerian the freedom to protest for the protection of their interests.

Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria says: Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.

The DSS advice for organised labour to shun its planned protest has been met with stiff criticism online as the agency’s intervention was described as a misplaced priority.

https://twitter.com/Onlineguru_/status/1760289724646711548?t=F59X5tw1eSR5_nQTVH2D6w&s=19

 



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