Nigeria has once again been reminded of the persistent threat of extremist groups, as the Department of State Services (DSS) issued a stark warning on Tuesday: the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is plotting coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states. This serious intelligence has prompted swift and decisive action from state governments, activating widespread surveillance and counter-terror measures to protect their citizens.
The Threat Unveiled
The DSS alert, initially communicated in a confidential letter to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, detailed “imminent attacks” by ISWAP terrorists. The letter, signed by H. I. Kana, specifically identified potential targets 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.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the DSS document read, adding that the group has commenced “surveillance on potential soft targets.” This alert carries significant weight, especially considering that Owo town was the site of a brutal ISWAP attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in June 2022, which claimed 41 lives.
States on High Alert: A Coordinated Response
Responding swiftly to the intelligence, the governors of the concerned states have moved to reassure residents while bolstering security.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through his Commissioner for Information, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, confirmed awareness of the security memo. He clarified that such leaked intelligence reports are a normal part of security operations, aimed at identifying and preventing potential threats through inter-agency cooperation. Governor Aiyedatiwa urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, reporting any suspicious movements to security agencies. The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, affirmed that the police are already acting on the intelligence, undertaking proactive measures.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, echoed this resolve. His Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described the intelligence as a “step towards victory,” commending the DSS for its vigilance. Fanwo assured citizens that the Kogi State Government is working closely with national security agencies, reinforcing strategic security measures and intensifying surveillance, particularly in border communities.
Regional Ripple Effect and Collaboration
Kogi State’s unique geographical position, sharing boundaries with 10 other states including Benue, Anambra, Enugu, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Niger, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, highlights the broader regional implications of this threat. This interconnectedness necessitates robust inter-state security collaboration.
In a testament to this collaborative spirit, the Special Adviser to Osun State Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Samuel Ojo, revealed that even before the DSS alert went public, the Adeleke administration had taken proactive steps to prevent infiltration into boundary communities. Ojo confirmed periodic meetings among security advisors from neighboring states, underscoring a shared commitment to regional security.
The Public’s Indispensable Role
Despite the official assurances and enhanced security measures, residents in the targeted communities express understandable apprehension. Mr. Olalekan Yussuf, a retired teacher from Owo, appealed for proactive measures, stating, “It is somehow scary, but thank God that the security agencies have exposed the plan.” Similarly, Mr. Rufus Alabi, a commercial bus driver in Oke Agbe, urged the government not to dismiss the threat as mere rumour, calling for decisive action to avert any attack.
Their concerns underscore the critical role of community vigilance. Governors and security agencies alike have stressed the importance of citizens remaining calm, yet highly alert, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities or strangers in their areas.
Moving Forward with Unified Resolve
The unified response from Ondo, Kogi, and neighbouring states, coupled with the proactive intelligence gathering by the DSS, demonstrates a concerted effort to safeguard lives and property. While the threat from ISWAP is real and persistent, the immediate activation of counter-terror measures and the call for public vigilance are crucial steps in thwarting these sinister plots.
As we navigate these challenging times, it is paramount for every citizen to:
- Remain calm but vigilant.
- Report any suspicious individual, group, or activity to the nearest security agency.
- Cooperate fully with security personnel.
Through shared vigilance and coordinated action, the collective resolve to thwart these heinous plots remains unwavering, ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
