DSS Raises Alarm Over Plots To Cause Religious Violence In 7 States And South-East

The Department of State Services (DSS) says it has uncovered plots by some elements working with external forces to incite religious violence across the country.

DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, who disclosed this on Monday evening, said that the masterminds planned to ignite religious crises in Lagos, Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, Rivers, Oyo, and in the South East.

Afunanya, who also warned that some worship centres and religious leaders may be attacked, urged Nigerians to report any attempt to breach the peace around them to the nearest security agencies.

“The Department of State Services (DSS) wishes to alert the public about plans by some elements working with external forces to incite religious violence across the country. Targeted states include Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, Rivers, Oyo, Lagos and those in the South East.

“Part of the plans is to cause inter-religious conflicts as well as use their foot soldiers to attack some worship centres, religious leaders, personalities, key and vulnerable points.

“Consequently, Nigerians are advised to be wary of these antics and shun all divisive tendencies aimed at inciting or setting them against one another.

“While the Service pledges to collaborate with sister agencies to ensure that public order is maintained, those hatching these plots are warned to desist from such in the interest of peace, security and development of the country.

“However, law abiding citizens (and residents) are encouraged to report suspected breaches of peace around them to the nearest security agencies,” Afunanya said.

This is coming just a few weeks after DSS alerted Nigerians about plans by “criminal elements” to carry out series of attacks including suicide bombings during the festive saeson.