The Department of State Services, DSS, says it is aware of plans by subversive elements to disrupt the presidential inauguration programmes in parts of the country.
A statement issued on Thursday by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Peter Afunanya, disclosed that the aim of these subversive elements is to undermine security agencies’ efforts at ensuring peaceful ceremonies as well as creating panic and fear among members of the public.
Based on these, the Service called for strict adherence by citizens, the media and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), to security and civil protocols during the events, urging them to shun fake news, false alarms, skewed reportage/narratives and sensationalism that may likely inflame division, tension and violence prior to and after the exercises, as “such undesirable acts will serve no purpose other than destroying national unity and cohesion”.
The Service also warned all unauthorised (and unaccredited) persons to stay away from restricted and certain designated areas at the event venues, while reiterating its earlier call for the populace to remain calm and law abiding, even as it will continue to sustain collaboration with sister agencies to ensure successful inaugurations.
It would be recalled that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Transition Council (PTC), Mr. Boss Mustapha, on 18th May, 2023 held a World Press Conference during which he announced activities for the Presidential inauguration. The major highlight of the activities is the swearing-in of the President on 29th May, 2023 in Abuja. On the same date, new Governors will also be inaugurated in most of the States.
