Bye-elections: Avoid acts capable of causing breakdown of law, DSS urges electorates, politicians

The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged elctorates and participating political parties in the February 3rd, 2024 re-run and bye- elections to be of good conduct during and after the exercises.

The DSS made the call through a statement signed by its Director, Public Relations & Strategic Communications, Dr. Peter Afunanya on Friday.

While calling on Politicians and their supporters to adhere to the electoral act and procedure, the service charged the public to avoid all acts capable of causing breakdown of law and order in the affected states.

“Beyond the elections, the DSS enjoins citizens to be patriotic and loyal to the Nigerian nation. Public commentators, social critics and key players in the public space should consider the peace of the country over and above their personal or group interests”, the statement added.

The DSS advised against the spread of fake news before, during and after the elections. It also expressed commitment to work with relevant stakeholders to achieve a hitch-free exercise.

According to the Service, “The Media, Civil Society and Community Based Organisations are encouraged to shun divisive tendencies and fake narratives likely to undermine national order. It is unarguable that it is only if there is a livable country that individuals, groups or corporate bodies can pursue and realise their legitimate businesses and ambitions. The Service, therefore, advises those engaging in subversive endeavours or desirous of doing so to desist from such; consequently, it will not hesitate to bring defaulters, no matter how highly placed, to face the full weight of the law.

“On its part, the Service, in the discharge of its mandate, will work with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), other sister security and law enforcement agencies and indeed all stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free election. Additionally, it will continue to implement proactive measures to achieve the desired stability in the country”.