Department of State Services, on Thursday, said it has uncovered fresh plot by “subversive elements” to disrupt the inauguration of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu .
The DSS stressed that the elements are employing fake news, false alarms, skewed reportage or narratives and sensationalism that may likely inflame division, tension and subsequently cause violence before and after the exercises.
The secret police, however, warned residents of the Federal Capital Territory and other states of the Federation where the inauguration would hold the same day, not to be unruly or try to defy security protocols.
DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, while addressing newsmen on Thursday morning, advised citizens, the media and Civil Society Organisations to adhere strictly to security and civil protocols during the events.
He said, “The Service is, however, aware of plans by subversive elements to disrupt the programmes in parts of the country. The aim is to undermine security agencies’ efforts at ensuring peaceful ceremonies as well as creating panic and fear among members of the public.
“This is more so that such undesirable acts will serve no purpose other than destroying national unity and cohesion. Additionally, all unauthorized (and unaccredited) persons are warned to stay away from restricted and certain designated areas at the event venues.”
He urged Nigerians to remain calm before, during and after the inauguration ceremonies, adding that the DSS would continue to collaborate with the Nigerian police, the military and other sisters security agencies in order to tame all the threats.
Reminded that the service had yet to make any arrest or name any key player in the plot despite raising the alarm, Afunanya said among many roles that the Service play, is advisory role.
He assured that the media would be properly briefed whenever any arrest is made, urging the media not to vitiate from the essence of the reportage.
He said, “Do you mean there is nothing to report …people should be unruly? Defy security protocols?, the secret police officer queried when responding to our correspondent’s enquiry.
“The media informs and educates. Inform the people not to be violent or engage in acts likely to undermine the inaugurations. You owe the citizenry that. If and when there is an arrest you will know. Don’t vitiate from the core of the reportage.
