TheCable

The Department of State Services (DSS) says “some elements” working with external forces are planning to incite religious violence across the country.

In a statement on Monday, Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesman, said Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, Rivers, Oyo, Lagos and states in the south-east are major targets.

Afunanya urged citizens to shun anything that would create division.

“The DSS wishes to alert the public about plans by some elements working with external forces to incite religious violence across the country,” the statement read.

“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.”