The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned Nigerians against making inciting statements by individuals, groups or associations, which are capable of causing violence and unrest in the country. This was made known in a statement released by the DSS spokesman, Peter Afunanya, a part of which reads;
“The Service warns individuals or groups involved in these divisive acts and tendencies to desist forthwith. While it is determined to ensure that the tribal chauvinists and mischief makers do not continue to exploit socio-political differences and the internet platforms to threaten the peace and stability of the country, it will, however, sustain the apprehension and prosecution of defaulters.
“Community leaders and persons of influence are, therefore, enjoined to be most responsible in their utterances as well as rein in (their) people for national cohesion and peaceful co-existence. Aggrieved persons and groups are encouraged to use dialogue as a true means of non-violent resolution of disputes or any misgivings. It is believed that only when the country is united that she can achieve her greatness. It is also instructive to know that no country develops in an environment of chaos….Findings revealed that these unpatriotic actors make unguarded public statements and/ or use social media platforms to instil fear in the minds of citizens….
“Such inciting materials oftentimes are designed to make or convey false accusations by one group against the other. They also resort to skewing historical narratives to suit their objective of masterminding ethnic violence in the nation. So far, some of the culprits have been arrested…. “In this regard, it will continue to sustain its position on positively and gainfully engaging stakeholders while undertaking appropriate security measures against the undesirable characters whose preoccupation is planning to cause a breakdown of law and order in the country.”
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