Ayu: DSS warns PDP National Chairman against incendiary comments

The Department of State Services, DSS, has warned the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Iyorchia Ayu, against making unguarded remarks against it and other security agencies in the country.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday, February 28, by the DSS Spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, who explained that contrary to Ayu’s recent remarks, it remains neutral and transparent in carrying out its duties.

Ayu had earlier disclosed, in a statement, that the PDP would not use the secret police to harass Nigerians if it returns to power in 2023, which triggered the response by the DSS.

Also Read: Atiku urges INEC to roll out guidelines for 2023 polls after signing of Electoral Act

In a statement, Afunanya stressed that the secret police, though would not join issues with politicians, however, frowned at Ayu’s comment, which is “considered unjustified, unfair, speculative and preposterous.”

The DSS statement reads partly: “Having served variously as Senate President, Minister of Education, Industry, Internal Affairs and Environment, with full complements of security details, he knows the Service is never used to harass the people. And if he ever used the details for negative purposes (unknown to the Service), he should know that the times have changed.

“Ayu knows that the Service is a frontline guardian of democracy and respects the rule of law in Nigeria. It is committed to the protection of the people.

“While members of the public are urged to disregard Ayu’s statement, politicians are enjoined to desist from making unguarded utterances with tendencies to breach public order.”

Meanwhile, Ayu, on Sunday said that the main opposition was only open to “serious members” who would build the party, not those who come to vie for positions alone.

He also said that the PDP was the only serious party in the country at the moment.

The Chairman said, “This party was doing something right and you believe that. Given another chance which I believe Nigerians will do, it will still take Nigeria to greater heights.

“We’re happy that this great party, which is actually the only serious party in the country, is attracting people of your calibre. We welcome you on board.

“Our party welcomes every serious member, particularly those who will help to build the party; not just those who come to vie for positions and when they lose, they run away.

“We are here not just to win the presidential election but to win other elections as well because even if we have a President and we don’t have the supporting cast, we can’t run the country successfully.”