According to the Department of State Services, some irate people have intentions to interfere with events planned for a peaceful transition ceremony on May 29.
However, the security service issued a harsh warning that it would not permit such disloyal Nigerians to disrupt the handover event in any region of the nation.
According to a statement released by the agency’s spokesperson, Dr. Peter Afunaya, on Thursday in Abuja, individuals who organize such crimes do so to undermine the efforts of security services to ensure peaceful celebrations as well as to instill fear and panic in the populace.
As security services are on top of the situation, the DSS urged Nigerians to maintain peace and follow the law.
“It would be recalled that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Transition Council (PTC) 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.
The Service is however aware of subversive elements’ efforts to sabotage the programs in several areas of the nation. In addition to undermining security authorities’ efforts to ensure calm ceremonies, the goal is to instill dread and terror among the general people.
These serve as a basis for advising participants, the media, and Civil Society Organizations to rigorously follow civil and security protocol during the activities. They are also encouraged to avoid sensationalism, fake news, false alarms, slanted reporting, and stories that raise unrest both before and after the drills.
This is doubly so because such unwelcome actions will only help to undermine national cohesiveness and unity. Additionally, all unauthorized (and unaccredited) individuals are cautioned to avoid the event venues’ restricted and specifically specified zones.
The Service reiterates its earlier request that people follow the law and be calm. To ensure successful inaugurations, it will maintain its engagement with sister organizations in the meantime.
