The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a security alert over plans by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to carry out coordinated attacks in parts of Ondo and Kogi states.
A confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, revealed that credible intelligence confirmed ISWAP’s plans to target specific communities.
The memo signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security at the DSS Ondo State Command, listed Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West LGA, as well as Owo in Owo LGA, among the potential targets.
The document revealed that the insurgents have already begun surveillance of soft targets in the affected areas. The DSS, therefore , urged the military and other security agencies to increase vigilance and strengthen operations to prevent any possible attack.
The memo hinted: “Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon”.
.DSS stressed the need to heighten security alertness to safeguard lives and property in those areas.This alert comes three years after the June 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed during morning Mass by suspected ISWAP fighters.
Reacting to the latest intelligence report, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, convened a high-level security meeting with stakeholders from the two Police Area Commands in the Akoko region — Ikare and Iwaro-Oka.
The meeting which took place in Ikare Akoko, aimed at reinforcing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community leaders.It attracted individuals and groups including traditional rulers, senior police officers, leaders of the Fulani and Igbo communities, representatives of the NURTW, Okada Riders Association, Farmers’ Association, Nigeria Forest Security Service, Vigilante and Hunters Associations, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), led by its State Chairman, Ambassador Gabriel Ariyo.The meeting focused on intelligence sharing, community vigilance, and border security, particularly in areas adjoining Ekiti and Kogi states.
Representatives of the farmers pledged to provide timely information to aid police operations, while community leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the police with credible intelligence.CP Lawal commended the stakeholders for their cooperation and dedication to peacebuilding efforts.
He shared his direct contact number with attendees, urging them to report any suspicious activity immediately to enhance the command’s response capacity.
The Police spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the engagement was part of proactive policing strategies initiated by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
