The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned politicians to watch their utterances so as not to cause a breakdown of law and order.
The warning is contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesman for the service, Mr. Peter Afunanya.
It is believed that the statement was informed by a petition by the minister of state for labour and employment, Mr. Festus Keyamo, asking the DSS to invite the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi and his running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, over their rejection of Tinubu as the president-elect.
The DSS said despite that some politicians had challenged the outcome of the elections in court, it however cautioned the merchants of violence who are bent on throwing the country into chaos by peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives to pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the federal, state and parliamentary levels to desist from such acts.
“It would be recalled that the Service had earlier advised political players to abide by the rules of engagement as well as approach the courts for redress, if and where there are suspicions of infractions on extant electoral laws.
“It is evident that some aggrieved politicians are already taking advantage of this legal process. This, without doubt, is the beauty of democracy. It is strongly believed that this approach enhances peace and security. All and sundry should cherish it.
“Be that as it may, the DSS will not tolerate a situation where persons and/or groups take laws into their hands and champion anarchy. Those peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives as basis to ignite violence or pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the federal, state and parliamentary levels, should stop forthwith.
“Those inciting violence have nothing to gain as doing so will not only consume them but also the innocent. It is otherwise disturbing to see respected personalities use their platforms to mislead or incite citizens. This, to say the least, does not augur well for peaceful coexistence and general order.
“Therefore, the Service will continue to take necessary measures to checkmate these elements who do not wish the country well. This is to ensure that the conducive environment is provided for citizens and residents to pursue their legitimate businesses. A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. Let all be guided.”
