TheCable

The Department of State Services (DSS) says some individuals are planning a negative campaign against the service.

In a statement on Tuesday, Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesman, said these individuals are using fake news and propaganda to smear the secret police.

Afunanya said the public should disregard these publications, adding that it is committed to discharging its mandate in line with the law.

“The Department of State Services (DSS) has uncovered plans by some subversive groups and individuals to undertake a negative media campaign against the service,” he said.

“The aim is to further use fake news, propaganda and malicious narratives through sponsored articles, among others, to undermine it.

“The service has steadily monitored these activities, their perpetrators and therefore wish to inform the public to disregard the emerging trends and patterns.

“The service reassures its commitment to the discharge of its mandate. It will not be distracted or silenced. Those engaged in the deliberate efforts to run it down are, however, advised to desist from doing so or be ready to face the full wrath of the law.”

Meanwhile, a group known as the Federation of Freelance Journalists (FJF) has passed a vote of confidence on the DSS.

In a statement, Akor Daniel, FJF chairman, cautioned the media to be wary of those seeking to publish negative content against the service.

“Notwithstanding, it is expected that going forward, the media would play a vital role in shaping perspectives in line with genuine efforts of security agencies as demonstrated in recent feats recorded by security agencies,” Daniel said.

“Our problem in this country seem to be compounded by the hostile tendencies of the media towards nationalism, peace and unity” Otherwise why would stakeholders in the media look the other way when falsehood is almost becoming a sole political tool to incite law abiding citizens against their government?

“These elements do not seem to appreciate what DSS and NIA for example are doing to keep this country together. If they do, certainly, their disposition towards nation building would be more productive and positive.”