To avert potential dangers, the Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned Nigerians not to gather in large crowds.
DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya issued an advisory on Friday urging Nigerians to be careful about public risks, particularly Improvised Explosive Devices.
Afunanya congratulated Muslims on the start of Ramadan and Christians on the beginning of Lent, and urged citizens to report any unusual actions or movements to security services.
He also urged clerics from both religions, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to avoid economic exploitation, sabotage, or profiteering during these important obligations, emphasising that the service promotes tolerance, brotherhood, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among the populace.
“Residents are advised to remain vigilant against public dangers especially Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs),” the message went on to say.
“Also, the general public is urged to stay informed about potential threats; avoid crowded or suspicious areas and report to relevant security agencies any strange objects, activities, and movements of hostile elements.”
According to him, the DSS understands the importance of these sacred ceremonies, which is why it encourages worshippers to develop understanding, compassion, and mutual respect before and after the exercises.
According to the secret police spokesman, “The Management extends its heartfelt felicitations for peace, unity, and harmony to adherents of these faiths.” The DSS acknowledges the importance of these sacred rites and encourages worshippers to cultivate understanding, compassion, and respect for one another both during and after the exercises.
The advertisement encourages stakeholders to avoid economic exploitation, sabotage, or profiteering during key commitments. This is especially true because illicit behaviours such as price gouging or unscrupulous marketing strategies are unholy, violate fairness, and have the potential to damage the actual character of religious events.
“As believers, it is incumbent upon us to uphold good standards and ensure that everyone can observe the religious duties with ease and dignity. Furthermore, the Service encourages clerics and religious leaders to uphold empathy as well as prioritise cooperation and conflict prevention beyond the periods under reference.
“Similarly, the media is encouraged to utilise their platforms to foster informed and accurate engagements that (can) enhance the achievement of national security objectives and interests.
“Likewise, residents are advised to remain vigilant against public dangers especially Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Also, the general public is urged to stay informed about potential threats; avoid crowded or suspicious areas, and report to relevant security agencies any strange objects, activities, and movements of hostile elements.
“In the same vein, the Service calls for tolerance, bonds of brotherhood, dialogue and peaceful coexistence among the populace. Overall, the Service recommits to provision of strategic intelligence to other sister agencies in order to achieve a safe and secure country.
“As we undertake these spiritual journeys in the Lenten and Ramadan periods, let us remember to love and share the values that unite us. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of mercy, tolerance, forgiveness, being our brother’s keepers among others and by these, advance a more inclusive and equitable society for us all.”