The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a security alert warning of planned terrorist attacks by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) on selected communities in Ondo and Kogi States.
According to a classified memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure, the DSS revealed that credible intelligence indicates that ISWAP militants are preparing coordinated assaults on multiple locations.
The memo, signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command, 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 possible targets.
The DSS further disclosed that the terrorists had already begun conducting surveillance on soft targets within the affected areas. The agency urged the military to intensify security patrols and adopt preventive measures to avert potential loss of lives and property.
The memo read in part:
> “Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon. Security alertness in the identified areas should be immediately heightened to prevent casualties and destruction.”
In response to the alert, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, convened a high-level security meeting on Tuesday, October 21, at Ikare Akoko. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the two Police Area Commands in the Akoko region — Ikare and Iwaro-Oka — to strengthen proactive security measures.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ayanlade Olayinka, the meeting was part of the police’s renewed effort to forestall any breakdown of law and order and to align with the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s proactive policing strategy.
Attendees included traditional rulers, senior police officers, leaders of the Fulani and Igbo communities, as well as representatives of the NURTW, Okada Riders Association, Farmers’ Association, Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Vigilante and Hunters Associations, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) led by its State Chairman, Ambassador Gabriel Ariyo.
The interactive session, according to the police, helped strengthen mutual trust and enhance intelligence-sharing between security agencies and local communities.
Participants praised the Command’s ongoing peacekeeping efforts and pledged continuous cooperation through timely information sharing and joint vigilance to ensure safety across the state.
In his closing remarks, CP Lawal commended the dedication of officers under the two Area Commands and expressed appreciation to community leaders for their partnership. He also shared his direct contact number with participants, urging them to provide credible information to support ongoing security operations.
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