Sinn Féin’s Mr Martin McGuinness said tonight that he and his wife have been warned they are being targeted by loyalist paramilitaries.
Mr McGuinness said he had been informed by the RUC to review their personal security following threats by loyalists.
Several other leading Sinn Féin members have also been warned in recent days, it was claimed, including Assembly member Ms Michelle Gildernew, national chairman Mr Mitchel McLaughlin and Derry City Mayor Mr Cathal Crumley.
The RUC has warned several republicans throughout Northern Ireland following the discovery of names of leading republicans on computer files associated with a loyalist paramilitary group.
A statement issued on behalf of Mr McGuinness tonight expressed concern about the threats.
It said: "This is a very serious development. It is a particular worry that my wife's details have appeared.
"I would urge all republicans to be on their guard following this very serious development."
An RUC spokesman would not comment on Mr McGuinness's claim, saying it was not policy to discuss specific cases.
He said: "Where it is believed a person's life to be in danger, we inform that person to enable him or her to take steps to guarantee their personal safety."
PA