The Department of State Services (DSS) this morning, Monday, September 4, said it has uncovered a plot to stage violent protests in the country.

The Service disclosed this in a statement, adding, "Intelligence reports have indicated that the plotters include certain politicians who are desperately mobilising unsuspecting student leaders, ethnic based associations, youth and disgruntled groups for the planned action".

In the statement by the Public Relations Officer Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, theDSS said "some elements" were behind the plans to stage violent protests.

It further disclosed that the plot was "in order to discredit the Federal Government and security agencies over sundry socio-economic matters".

"Meanwhile, the Service has identified the ring leaders of the plotas well as sustained monitoring around them in order to deter them from plunging the country into anarchy", Afunanya declared in the statement.

The DSS urges, "In view of this development, university Vice-Chancellors and heads of tertiary Institutions are advised to discourage their students from engaging in acts capable of derailing public peace. "Also, parents and guardians are enjoined to admonish their children and wards respectively to shun the lure of participating in inimical behaviours or conducts against law and order.

"While the DSS is aware of Government’s efforts and determination to resolve some of the challenges confronting the nation, it warns those desirous of subverting national security to retrace their steps.

"This is more so that it will not hesitate to legally come against persons and groups behind the devious plans".