Potential threat: Avoid crowded gathering, SSS to Nigerians

The State Security Service (SSS), yesterday cautioned Nigerians to avoid crowded places or suspicious locations to avoid “potential threats” that may come out from improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The secret police, in its message to both Christian and Muslim faithful to felicitate with them at their Lent and coming Ramadan seasons respectively, said the advice became imperative to ensure peace across the country.

Peter Afunanya, the spokesman of the secret police, also cautioned clerics, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to refrain from economic exploitation, sabotage or profiteering during these important religious obligations.

“Residents are advised to remain vigilant against public dangers, especially improvised explosive devices (IEDs),” Afunanya said, stressing the need for tolerance, bond of brotherhood, dialogue and peaceful coexistence among the populace.

He stated that the SSS recognised the significance of these sacred rites, urging worshippers to promote understanding, compassion and respect for one another during and after the exercises.

“I appeal to stakeholders to refrain from economic exploitation, sabotage or profiteering during these important obligations. This is more so that illegal practices such as price gouging or unethical marketing tactics are ungodly. Violating fairness can undermine the true essence of the holy 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,” he stated.