DSS Raises Alarm Over Imminent ISWAP Attacks in Ondo, Kogi

DSS warns of imminent ISWAP attacks in Ondo and Kogi States.
Security forces ordered to tighten surveillance across targeted areas.
Alert follows the deadly 2022 Owo church attack by suspected ISWAP members.

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

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a confidential letter addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, the DSS warned of “imminent attacks” and urged the military to heighten surveillance and security operations across vulnerable 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.”

According to the intelligence report, the targeted communities include Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area.

The DSS noted that the terrorists had begun surveillance on potential soft targets in the affected areas. It called for urgent and increased security presence to prevent any possible attack.

The letter read in part, “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. Consequently, there is a need to scale up the level of alertness to forestall any untoward situation.”

Confirming the alert, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said security agencies were already responding to the intelligence. “That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware,” he stated.

This warning comes three years after suspected ISWAP members attacked St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, on June 5, 2022, killing 41 worshippers and injuring several others. The suspects were later apprehended by the DSS and are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.