2019 Polls: DSS vows to deal with lawbreakers, purveyors of fake news

The Department of State Services ( DSS ) has expressed
determination to deal with lawbreakers, including those who may try
to use violence and fake news to sabotage coming elections.

In a statement by its spokesman, Peter Afunanya in Abuja on
Monday, the DSS emphasised preparedness to deal with politicians,
electoral officers, voters and erring mass media whose acts run
contrary to the Electoral Act and other laws.

“The Service commits itself to the provision of adequate
security throughout the period of the electoral process.

“Politicians and the youth are expected to shun all acts of
violence the same way observers are urged to keep to the
fundamentals and principles of election monitoring as allowed by
law and global best practice.

“Without doubt, the Electoral Act is clear on the roles of
stakeholders; the common aim of all and sundry should be for
Nigeria to hold successful elections that will be adjudged free,
fair, transparent and credible and accepted nationally and
internationally.

“Everyone is urged to conduct themselves properly before, during
and after the elections and avoid actions that may cause breakdown
of law and order,” the DSS spokesman stated.

According to Afunanya, Nigerians should expect DSS’
uncompromising professionalism as it embarks on sustaining peace
and ensuring security.

“On its part, the DSS will professionally discharge its
statutory mandate which, among others, is to detect and prevent
threats and crimes against the internal security of Nigeria; also,
it will appropriately engage stakeholders for the protection and
success of the elections.

“Similarly, the service will not condone fake news, incendiary
or hate speeches designed to whip up dangerous ethnic, religious
and/or political sentiments capable of stoking the embers of
violence.

“Consequently, prospective lawbreakers are forewarned to steer
clear of acts capable of undermining national security and
stability; the Service will, however, not stand idly and watch
miscreants and mischief makers bring avoidable chaos and disorder
upon the nation,” the DSS stated.

Urging law-abiding citizens to go about their normal duties and
participation in the elections, it also advised that the DSS should
be reached via 07055655591, 09030002189 and dsspr@dss.gov.ng in
case of vital information that requires DSS attention during the
period.