The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a security alert to the Nigerian Army regarding a suspected plan by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to carry out coordinated attacks in Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential letter addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, and obtained by The PUNCH, the DSS warned of imminent threats and urged increased surveillance and security presence in vulnerable areas.
The document, signed by H.I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, was titled “Imminent Attacks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP.” It identified potential targets including Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West LGA, and Owo town in Owo LGA.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the letter read in part.
The DSS revealed that the group has already begun surveillance on soft targets in the identified areas, and called for urgent proactive measures by security forces and increased community vigilance.
Speaking on the alert, Ondo State Police spokesperson, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that the police were already acting on the intelligence.
“That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure we’re not caught off guard,” Ayanlade said.
This development comes more than three years after a deadly ISWAP-linked attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo on June 5, 2022, which left 41 dead and dozens injured.
Those suspected of carrying out that attack were later arrested by the DSS and are currently on trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
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