Terror Alert: ISWAP plots fresh attacks in Ondo, Kogi

The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised alarm over plans by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch fresh attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States.

In a confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure, the DSS said credible intelligence revealed that the insurgents were planning coordinated assaults on several communities.

Signed by the Director of Security, Ondo State Command, Hi Kana, the report listed Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area, among the identified targets.

According to the memo, the terrorists have already begun surveillance on soft targets in the affected areas. The agency urged the military and other security outfits to heighten alertness and step up operations to prevent possible attacks.

“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon,” the memo read. “The level of security alertness across the identified communities should be immediately scaled up to prevent loss of lives and property.”

This latest security alert comes three years after the June 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed by suspected ISWAP members during morning mass.

Meanwhile, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has convened a high-level security meeting with stakeholders from the two Police Area Commands in the Akoko region, Ikare and Iwaro-Oka in response to the DSS alert.

Police spokesperson, SP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the meeting, held at Ikare Akoko, was part of proactive steps to strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities.

Traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of various groups — including farmers, transport unions, vigilante teams, and ethnic associations — attended the session, where participants pledged greater cooperation and intelligence sharing to safeguard their areas.

CP Lawal, who shared his personal contact with attendees, urged them to report suspicious movements or persons immediately. He commended security personnel for their dedication and promised that the command would continue to ensure peace and safety across the state.