Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno has blamed the misuse of social media for the heightened tensions that has led to violence in some parts of the country, particularly in Kaduna, Benue, Zamfara and Plateau states.

Monguno, who stated this during the General Security Appraisal Committee meeting held at the Office of the NSA in Abuja said fake news, hate speech and incitement through social media was being used by enemies of the country to forment trouble.

The NSA also disclosed that the Federal Government has banned the unauthorized acquisition of firearms, drones and some other specialized broadcast equipment.

“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.

“In a bid to address these spates of civil disturbances, heads of security agencies have reviewed the internal security situation and resolved to take all necessary measures within the law to curb this violence,” Monguno said.

He added: “Members of the public are sternly warned against illicit acquisition of controlled items such as firearms, remotely piloted aircraft (drones) and broadcast equipment, among others.

“Accordingly, those with such illegally acquired controlled items are hereby advised to voluntarily surrender them to the appropriate security agencies.”

In attendance at the meeting were the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Abayomi Olonisakin; the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai; Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Yusuf Bichi; Chief of Defence Intelligence Agency (CDI), Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Usman as well as representatives of other security agencies in the country.