The government of Ondo State has called for calm following a leaked security alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding potential terrorist attacks by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) on certain communities. The state’s Information Commissioner, Idowu Ajanaku, emphasized that such intelligence reports are a routine part of security assessments shared among agencies to evaluate threats and initiate preventive measures. The DSS memo, addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, identified potential targets including Oyin-Akoko, Eriti-Akoko, and Owo. Surveillance activities by the group have been noted, prompting urgent security reinforcements. Ajanaku reassured residents that the government and security agencies are actively working to ensure public safety and urged the community to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. Police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed that operational measures have been deployed, and the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has engaged with local stakeholders to enhance security efforts. This alert follows a previous attack in 2022 on St Francis Catholic Church in Owo, attributed to ISWAP, which resulted in numerous casualties.
Is Ondo State safe after leaked memo on ISWAP threats?
