The National Security Adviser (NSA) Mohammed Monguno has said security agencies have resolved to take all necessary measures to clamp down on anyone inciting insecurity in the country.
He made this known in Abuja on Thursday while addressing pressmen at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) with all the Service Chiefs and heads of major security agencies in attendance.
He spoke in reaction to recent violence in Kaduna, Benue, Plateau and Zamfara states that led to the loss of lives and properties, noting that the wave of violence is regrettable and unacceptable.
He pointed out that none-state actors and mischief-makers use the existing sentiments and primordial divisions in the country to incite violence and instability.
Monguno said, “The Federal Government is concerned that social media and other communication platforms are now used to exacerbate tension through rumour, hate speech and incitement.
“Nigerians are reminded that all laws and regulations against hate speech and incitement will be fully enforced to ensure peace, security and freedom for all Nigerians wherever they choose to live.”
He added that, “heads of security agencies have reviewed the internal security situation and resolved to take all necessary measure within the law to curb this violence.”
“While taking cognizance of the fundamental rights of Nigerians to freedom of expression and association, it is imperative to note that deliberate acts, which directly or indirectly lead to wanton loss of lives and properties will not be tolerated,” he added.
He warned against the illicit acquisition of controlled items such as firearms, remotely piloted aircrafts (drones) and broadcast equipment.
He said those with such illegally acquired controlled items are to voluntarily surrender them to the appropriate security agencies.
He noted that experience has shown that absence of early warning remains a challenge to early response by security agencies.
He said, “Therefore, all traditional leaders, religious leaders, non-governmental organizations and citizens are reminded of their role in developing community led Early Warning Systems at local levels.”
He said the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has activated its Crisis Response Platform for anonymous reporting of suspicious activities and security incidents.
He said all citizens can send anonymous reports through SMS to the short code that will be provided for early response.
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