The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised the alarm that National Assembly members would be targeted by kidnappers and bandits during the Yuletide.
The security service also said they have confirmed plots by elements tagged as desperate power seekers to cause a breakdown of law and order in the country.
Last month, the DSS announced that it had uncovered plots by bandits to attack military formations in border communities.
At a news briefing in Abuja, they further disclosed that intelligence at its disposal showed that National Assembly members were primary targets of kidnappings and assassinations during the Yuletide.
It also warned that students would be targets for recruitment into banditry and other crimes during their vacation
DSS Public Relations Officer Peter Afunanya said some desperate power-seekers were perpetrating this evil.
Afunanya said: “The Service, therefore, warns that those who are involved in these (plots) should desist from such destabilizing acts. It also enjoins politicians to play by the rule and avoid statements or activities capable of inflaming the fires of division and violence, before the 2023 elections.
“Opinion molders like the clergy, religious and traditional rulers are also to guard their utterances and avoid inciting pronouncements.
“In a related development, it is common knowledge that criminal elements will heighten their inglorious activities before, during, and after the festive periods.
“Therefore, religious and community leaders, hoteliers and operators of markets, parks, recreational and relaxation centers are to be on the alert and watch strange movements and activities around their facilities.
“As schools vacate and students return home for holidays, there is the likelihood that subversive gangs will target them for recruitment for undesirable purposes. These may include but are not limited to financial crimes, armed robbery, civil disobedience and violent protests, substance abuse, banditry, and kidnapping.
He added: “Aside from students, members of the National Assembly/ Houses of Assembly and other public/private sector workers on vacation may be predisposed to threats of various degrees.”
