Shun protest, embrace dialogue, DSS urges Organised Labour

The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged organised labour to shelve its planned protest in some parts of the federation in the interest of peace and public order.

The protest scheduled for the 27th and 28th of February seeks to draw attention to the economic hardships resulting from the removal of subsidy on fuel and its attendant effects on the price of goods and services.

The DSS said it acknowledges and recognises the legitimate right of the labour movement to stage protests but called on labour to pursue dialogue and negotiation and desist from conducts that could heighten tensions as the organisation has uncovered plans by some elements to take advantage of the protest to foment trouble and cause widespread violence. 

According to a press statement issued by its Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communication, Peter Afunaya, the development, the DSS affirmed, could worsen the situation across the country, urging organised labour to give the appropriate authorities, presently working hard to address the current challenges, a chance to evolve lasting solutions to the prevailing economic difficulties.

It also advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and shun any act that could disturb the peace of the country.