DSS Celebrates Lent and Ramadan with Faithfuls
By Aysha. S Rabo
As Christians and Muslims in Nigeria prepare for their Lent and Ramadan seasons respectively, the Department of State Services (DSS) has sent a message of goodwill and solidarity to the faithful of both religions.
The DSS, which is the primary intelligence and security agency of the country, said that it values the role of religion in fostering peace, unity and harmony among Nigerians.
In a statement signed by its Director of PR and Strategic Communications, Peter Afunanya, the DSS said that it recognises the significance of these sacred rites and urges worshippers to promote understanding, compassion and respect for one another during and after the exercises.
The DSS also appealed to stakeholders to refrain from economic exploitation, sabotage or profiteering during these important obligations, saying that such practices are ungodly and unfair, and can undermine the true essence of the holy events.
The DSS said that as believers, it is incumbent upon Nigerians to uphold good standards and ensure that everyone can observe the religious duties with ease and dignity.
The statement also encouraged clerics and religious leaders to uphold empathy and prioritise cooperation and conflict prevention beyond the periods under reference.
The DSS also advised the media to use their platforms to foster informed and accurate engagements that can enhance the achievement of national security objectives and interests.
The DSS also urged residents to remain vigilant against public dangers, especially improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and to report any suspicious objects, activities or movements to relevant security agencies.
The DSS also called for tolerance, bonds of brotherhood, dialogue and peaceful coexistence among the populace, saying that these are the values that unite Nigerians.
The DSS said that it is committed to providing strategic intelligence to other sister agencies in order to achieve a safe and secure country.
The agency also reminded Nigerians to love and share the values that unite them, and to reaffirm their commitment to the values of mercy, tolerance, forgiveness, and being their brother’s keepers, and by these, advance a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
The International Women’s Day is a global event that celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It was established by the UN in 1972.
DSS Celebrates Lent and Ramadan with Faithfuls