The Department of State Services has raised the alarm over an alleged plan by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province to launch coordinated attacks in parts of Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential letter reportedly addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, the DSS warned of “imminent attacks” by the terrorist group and called for heightened surveillance and security presence across vulnerable areas.
The letter, signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, was titled “Imminent Attacks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP.”
According to intelligence cited in the document, ISWAP operatives had commenced reconnaissance on possible soft targets in several communities, including Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of Islamic State of West Africa Province to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the letter reportedly read in part.
“It was further gathered that the group has commenced surveillance on potential soft targets in the above-mentioned locations. Consequently, there is a need to scale up the level of security alertness in the various communities to forestall any untoward situation,” the DSS warned.
The security agency also urged the Nigerian Army and other relevant security formations to take immediate action to prevent the planned attacks, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that security agencies were already acting on the intelligence report.
“That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday,” Ayanlade said. “Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware.”
The latest alert comes more than three years after suspected ISWAP terrorists attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, on June 5, 2022, killing at least 41 worshippers and injuring several others.
The suspects were later arrested by the DSS and are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
