The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted the Nigerian Army to an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential letter addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, and obtained by our correspondent, the DSS warned of “imminent attacks” by ISWAP terrorists. The agency urged heightened surveillance and increased security deployment across vulnerable areas to prevent any potential incidents.
The letter, titled “Imminent Attacks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP” and signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, identified specific targeted communities in Ondo State, including Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area sited by OBSERVERS TIMES
“Intelligence has confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon,” the letter read in part. “The group has commenced surveillance of potential soft targets in the aforementioned locations. Consequently, there is an urgent need to escalate security alertness in these communities to forestall any untoward situation.”
The DSS called for immediate action by the army and other relevant security agencies to prevent the attacks, stressing the importance of community vigilance and cooperation.
Confirming the development, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said the police had already begun acting on the intelligence. “That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware,” he stated.
This alert comes over three years after terrorists, suspected to be ISWAP members, attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo on June 5, 2022, killing 41 worshippers and injuring many others. The suspects were subsequently arrested by the DSS and are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
