By Kingston Magare 22.10.2025
Residents of Oyin-Akoko, Eriti-Akoko and Owo in Ondo north are bracing up for terror attacks following intelligent report by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), is likely to launch coordinated attacks on some communities in Ondo and Kogi states.
The DSS in a leaked memo sent to the Nigerian Army, 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, Ondo State, identified the target locations, including Oyin-Akoko and Eriti-Akoko, both in the Akoko North-West Local Council Area, and Owo, the headquarters of the Owo Local Council Area of the state.
The letter read, “Intelligence confirmed plans by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon.
“It was further gathered that the groups have commenced surveillance on potential soft targets in the abovementioned locations. Consequently, there is a need to scale up the level of security alertness in the various communities to forestall any untoward situation.”
Ondo State Police Commissioner Adebowale Lawal has held security meetings with stakeholders from the two Police Area Commands in the Akoko axis.
In June 22 terrorists suspected to be ISWAP members attacked the St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, killing 41 worshippers and injuring dozens. The suspects arrested are currently on trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said the government is aware of the threats.
“The emphasis remains on maintaining vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and the government to prevent and respond to any potential threats. We urge all residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency. We want to reassure you that every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in Ondo State.
“Once again, we appeal to residents to remain calm, go about their normal daily activities, refrain from taking law into their hands, cooperate with security agencies and provide any information that may help prevent any threat in any part of the State.”