The Department of State Services (DSS) has placed security agencies and residents of the South-West and North-Central regions on high alert following intelligence reports indicating a planned terrorist attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in parts of Ondo and Kogi States.
According to a confidential DSS memo addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, the agency warned of “imminent attacks” and advised increased surveillance and deployment across vulnerable locations. The memo, signed by H.I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, listed Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko, and Owo in Ondo State as potential targets.
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the document stated, adding that surveillance on potential soft targets had already commenced.
Ondo, Kogi, and Neighboring States Heighten Vigilance
The Ondo State Government, reacting through its Commissioner for Information, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, confirmed receipt of the DSS memo, assuring residents that necessary steps had been taken to prevent any breach of peace.
“The government is aware of the security alert and is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property,” the statement read. “Residents are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report suspicious movements to the nearest security post.”
The Kogi State Government, in a statement by Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, also reassured residents that security has been reinforced across all local government areas.
“Governor Ahmed Ododo has made security a top priority. Surveillance and patrols have been intensified, especially around border communities. Kogi remains one of the safest states in Nigeria,” Fanwo said.
Kogi, which shares borders with 10 states including Benue, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Edo, Anambra, and the FCT, is seen as a strategic link for terrorist movements, prompting authorities to heighten border security operations.
Regional Security Collaboration Intensifies
In Ekiti State, the Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), disclosed that the state has mobilized joint patrol teams, local hunters, Amotekun Corps, and the Agro Marshals along its borders with Kogi and Ondo.
“We are working closely with our neighbors to exchange intelligence and ensure Ekiti remains safe. Residents should report any suspicious movements immediately,” Ogundana said.
The Osun State Government also confirmed that boundary communities are under close surveillance. According to Mr. Samuel Ojo, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ademola Adeleke, inter-state collaboration among security advisers in Ondo, Ekiti, Kogi, and Kwara has been strengthened.
“We have discussed extensively and acted proactively to prevent infiltration. Residents must stay alert and cooperate with security operatives,” he stated.
In Ogun State, the government’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said the state has deployed a “robust intelligence network” across border communities, with stop-and-search operations and forest patrols around routes linking Ogun, Ondo, Oyo, and Osun States.
“Tactical units have been mobilised along porous border points to deter infiltration. So far, there are no confirmed cases of invasion,” Akinmade confirmed.
North-Central States Strengthen Coordination
In Kwara State, the Police Command spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the command was “fully on top of the situation,” adding that joint operations with the military and vigilante groups have been intensified, especially around border communities.
“We are not taking chances. Patrols have been increased, and intelligence sharing with sister agencies is ongoing to prevent infiltration,” she said.
Similarly, the Nasarawa State Government assured residents that it had adopted fresh strategies to tackle emerging threats. The Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, dismissed rumors of a new Boko Haram splinter group, stating that investigations found no evidence of such in the state.
“Security has been strengthened, especially around border areas. Residents should disregard false alarms and support ongoing security efforts,” he stated.
Kaduna Commends DSS for Arms Seizure, Intelligence Work
Meanwhile, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, praised the DSS for its coordinated operation that led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of a cache of arms and ammunition linked to a major gunrunning syndicate supplying weapons to bandit groups in the North.
Recovered items included five AK-47 rifles, a PKT machine gun, over 220 rounds of live ammunition, and ₦69,050 hidden in sacks of maize.
“This is the result of strong intelligence sharing and inter-agency synergy. Kaduna’s peace framework is yielding results, and we will continue to protect our people,” the governor stated.
Governor Sani reaffirmed that the Kaduna Peace Model, which combines non-kinetic engagement and intelligence-led operations, is reducing crime rates across the state.
National Response and Public Advisory
The DSS has called for community vigilance, urging residents of all affected regions to report suspicious movements, strange faces, or abandoned objects to security agencies.
Security experts warn that coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local actors are essential to preventing ISWAP from exploiting porous borders or unguarded communities.
