The Department of State Services has raised alarm over an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential letter sent to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, the DSS said intelligence reports pointed to “imminent attacks” and warned security agencies to heighten surveillance in the affected 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.”
“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 document read.
“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,” it added.
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The DSS listed Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, as possible targets. It urged the army and other security agencies to move swiftly to protect the vulnerable communities and prevent another tragedy.
Confirming the alert, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said the police were already acting on the intelligence.
“That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware,” Ayanlade said.
The warning comes more than three years after terrorists suspected to be ISWAP members attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo on June 5, 2022, killing 41 worshippers and injuring several others.
Those arrested in connection with the attack are currently standing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.