NIGERIA’s Department of State Services (DSS) has urged the citizens, media and Civil Society Organisations to shun fake news, false alarms, and sensationalism ahead of the May 29 transition.
According to a statement signed by the DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, on Thursday, May 25, 2023, the call was to guard against reports that could inflame division, tension and violence prior to and after the democratic transition.
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Afunanya said the service was aware of plans by subversive elements to disrupt the programme in parts of the country.
“The aim is to undermine security agencies’ efforts at ensuring peaceful ceremonies and create panic and fear among members of the public,” Afunanya said.
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“Based on these, citizens, the media and Civil Society Organisations are advised to adhere strictly to security and civil protocols during the events.
“They are also urged to shun fake news, false alarms, skewed reportage/narratives and sensationalism that may likely inflame division, tension and violence prior to and after the exercises.”
He notes that the undesirable acts would serve no purpose other than destroying national unity and cohesion.
“Additionally, all unauthorised and non-accredited persons are warned to stay away from restricted and certain designated areas at the inauguration venues,” he said.
He called on the public to remain calm and law abiding, adding that the DSS would continue to sustain collaboration with sister agencies to ensure successful inauguration ceremonies nationwide.
Nurudeen Akewushola is a fact-checker with FactCheckHub. He has authored several fact checks which have contributed to the fight against information disorder. You can reach him via [email protected] and @NurudeenAkewus1 via Twitter.
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