The Department of State Services, DSS, has raised an alarm over plans by the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, to launch coordinated terrorist attacks on several communities across Ondo and Kogi states.
According to a confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, the DSS confirmed that credible intelligence revealed the insurgent group’s intention to strike soon.
The document, addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, was signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command.
The memo specifically identified Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area, as potential targets.
It warned that ISWAP operatives had begun surveillance of “soft targets” and urged the military to strengthen operations to prevent possible attacks.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated assaults on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon,” the statement read.
The DSS advised that “security alertness should be immediately scaled up to avert loss of lives and property.”
This development comes three years after the June 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, where more than 40 worshippers were killed by suspected ISWAP militants during Sunday Mass.
In response to the latest alert, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, convened a high-level security meeting on Tuesday with community leaders and law enforcement representatives from the Ikare and Iwaro-Oka Area Commands in the Akoko region.
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Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka said the meeting was part of ongoing “proactive policing strategies” under Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
The gathering brought together traditional rulers, leaders of the Fulani and Igbo communities, and representatives of the Farmers’ Association, Okada Riders Union, NURTW, Vigilante Groups, and Hunters’ Associations, among others.
Participants commended the police command for maintaining peace and pledged to provide timely intelligence to prevent attacks. Border communities adjoining Ekiti and Kogi states were identified as crucial zones for surveillance.
Commissioner Lawal thanked all stakeholders for their cooperation and shared his direct contact number, urging citizens to report suspicious movements promptly.
Security agencies have since intensified monitoring in the affected areas, with joint patrols and intelligence-sharing efforts underway to counter any ISWAP threat.
Vanguard
