Economic Hardship: DSS Encourages Labour Congress To Accept Dialogue

DSS tells organized labor to shelve the protest plan because it will worsen the situation

DSS claims some elements are planning violence and requests that the NLC postpone the nationwide protest.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been urged by the Department of State Services (DSS) to cancel its scheduled nationwide protest.

Concerned about the dire economic conditions facing Nigerians, the NLC announced on Friday that it would hold a two-day nationwide mass protest on February 27 and 28, 2024.

The DSS director of communications, Peter Afunanya, stated in a statement on Wednesday that while the agency acknowledges the NLC's right to protest, the congress should postpone the scheduled protest for the sake of public order and peace.

Read: Economic Hardship: NLC Announces National Protest Against Hardship

Afunanya stated that the DSS is aware of plans to “foment crisis and by extension, widespread violence” through the protest, as some elements have disclosed.

He continued by saying that this would make the socioeconomic conditions worse nationwide.

“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions,” the statement reads.

“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.”

The director pleaded with parents and guardians to steer their kids and wards away from actions that could endanger peace and public safety.

He further urged political parties, opposition organizations, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, and non-governmental organizations to abstain from violence and show leadership during these trying 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,” the statement reads.

“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.”