Don’t go ahead with your planned protest – DSS warns Organised Labour

The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged Organised Labour to shelve its planned nationwide protest in the interest of peace.

The organised labour has served notice of two-day protests between 27th and 28th February, 2024.

But in a statement on Wednesday, the DSS said while it was the right of the labour movement to embark on protest, the body should not go ahead with the strike so as not to jeopardise the prevailing situation in the country.

The statement was signed by the DSS Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Dr. Peter Afunanya.

Part of the statement reads,” 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 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.