The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted Muslim and Christian leaders in Osun State to an alleged plan by terrorists to attack places of worship and other public gathering centres as part of an attempt to create insecurity and frustrate the 2027 general elections.
According to Tribune, the DSS held separate meetings with representatives of the Muslim community and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Osogbo on Wednesday, September 9, where religious leaders were advised to strengthen security measures against possible attacks.
The warning reportedly followed intelligence indicating that terrorists were planning to extend their activities to the southern part of the country, particularly the South-West, in a bid to create tension ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Confirming the meeting, the President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustapha Olawuyi, said the security alert was genuine and that religious leaders had been given precautionary measures to help protect worshippers.
Olawuyi said the DSS warned religious centres against allowing vehicles to park close to congregations during prayers and advised mosques against allowing unknown individuals to sleep on their premises. He added that religious leaders were urged to be vigilant around commercial motorcycles and herders and to provide adequate security, including night guards, at mosques.
Similarly, the Osun State Chairman of CAN, Pastor John Adeleke, confirmed that the organisation met with the DSS and said Christian leaders were advised to sensitise churches and school owners to strengthen their security arrangements.
An extract from a report of the meeting, which was circulated in some Christian WhatsApp groups in the state, claimed that the DSS said Osun State had been mapped by suspected terrorists and that attacks could occur between now and the 2027 presidential election.
The report listed churches, mosques, markets, schools, clubs and viewing centres among possible targets and urged religious organisations to put stronger security measures in place.
The alleged security threat has heightened calls for vigilance among religious institutions and other public gathering centres across the state.
