As the country prepares for this year’s general election scheduled to hold on February 16 and March 2, 2019 for the Presidential and National Assembly, Governorship and State House of Assembly respectively the Department of State Services (DSS) call on all players as regards to the election – political parties and their candidates, citizens, electorates, National and International Observers, Electoral Officers, the media and all security operatives involved during and after the conduct of the elections to be law abiding.
The Service made known of its full commitment and adequate security throughout and after the duration of the of the elections.
It however called on politicians and the youths to desist from acts of violence during and after the election and also urged observers to abide by the principles of election monitoring as provided by in the Electoral Act which states clearly roles of stakeholders and also observers should carryout their duties according to international best practices.
The DSS promised to carryout its duties professionally within the confines of the law in detecting and preventing possible threats that may distort the free conduct of the elections across the country. It therefore, ensures that arrests will be made if any persons found wanting to distabilize or act against the objective of carrying out peaceful and orderly elections.
In information dissemination, the Service made it known that it will not condone fake news, hate speech or incendiary from individuals ot groups targeted at distabilizing the country during the election or inciting statement that may result to political sentiment that will provoke violence. It also issued a warning to prospective law breakers to beware of undermining national security. The Service will not watch and fold its arms on street miscreants and mischief makers who are capable to bring chaos and havoc upon the nation.
The Service however called on the public to support the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC and security operatives in achieving a violent free elections. Also, citizens should be law abiding and to give relevant information on suspected individuals who are into thuggery, theft of electoral materials and form of violence.
The Service however advised all citizens to conduct themselves responsibly during and after the elections and that they should carryout their civic responsibilities without or fear of intimidation as it out to ensure safety of lives and properties and also to be vigilant.
In order to help carryout its operations effectively, the following contact channels are available for citizens to use to get in touch with the Service. 07055655591, 09030002189 email: dsspr@dss.gov.ng
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