The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued an urgent security alert, warning of an imminent terrorist attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) targeting communities in Ondo and Kogi States.
In a confidential memo dated Monday, October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, the DSS confirmed that credible intelligence points to coordinated assaults being planned by ISWAP operatives. Surveillance activities by the group are reportedly already underway.
The memo, signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command, urgently identified Eriti Akoko, Oyin Akoko (Akoko North-West LGA), and Owo (Owo LGA) as high-risk targets.
“Intelligence confirms that ISWAP is plotting coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states. These attacks could occur at any moment. Immediate and heightened security measures are necessary to avert large-scale loss of life and property,” the DSS warned.
This chilling alert comes just over three years after the June 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, where over 40 worshippers were slaughtered during mass—one of the deadliest terror attacks in South-West Nigeria’s history.
Reacting swiftly, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, convened an emergency security summit on Tuesday with key stakeholders from the Akoko region, including traditional rulers, security personnel, and community leaders.
According to the Command’s Spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, the meeting was part of a “renewed, proactive effort to prevent a breakdown of law and order and to preempt any attack.”
Held at Ikare Akoko, the high-level engagement included representatives of the Fulani and Igbo communities, NURTW, Okada Riders, Farmers’ Associations, Nigeria Forest Security Service, Vigilante and Hunters groups, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).
Stakeholders unanimously pledged full cooperation, with farmers and community leaders promising real-time intelligence sharing. Traditional rulers emphasized the strategic importance of reinforcing border communities adjoining Ekiti and Kogi states.
Commending the cooperation and vigilance of local security actors, CP Lawal personally shared his contact number with attendees, urging the public to report suspicious activity without delay.
“This is not the time for complacency. We must act swiftly, decisively, and together,” the CP said.
Security agencies are urging residents of Ondo and Kogi States to remain vigilant and report any unusual movements or behavior. Time is of the essence.
