The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated att+cks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential memo to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, and signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, the DSS warned of “imminent att+cks” and urged the Nigerian Army to intensify surveillance and security patrols across vulnerable areas.
Titled “Imminent att+cks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP,” the letter identified Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, as possible targets.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated att+cks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the DSS stated, adding that the t+rr@ristshad begun monitoring potential soft targets.
The agency called for proactive measures and community vigilance to forestall any att+cks.
Confirming the development, Ondo State Police spokesperson, 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,” he said.
This alert comes three years after the June 5, 2022, att+ck on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, which left 41 worshippers d+ad and dozens inj¥red.
The suspects, believed to be ISWAP members, were later arrested by the DSS and are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
