The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a warning about an imminent terrorist attack planned by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) targeting communities in Ondo and Kogi states.
In a confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure, the DSS said credible intelligence indicates ISWAP is planning coordinated assaults on several locations.
Signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command, the memo listed Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo in Owo LGA, as likely targets. It noted that ISWAP operatives have already begun surveillance on soft targets in the identified areas.
The memo stated:
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states anytime soon.
The level of security alertness across the identified communities should be immediately scaled up to prevent loss of lives and property.”
In response to the alert, a high-level security meeting was held on Tuesday, October 21, at Ikare Akoko. The meeting was convened by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, and included stakeholders from the Ikare and Iwaro-Oka Police Area Commands.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, the meeting was part of a renewed effort to prevent any breakdown of law and order, in line with the proactive policing strategies of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
The session brought together traditional rulers, senior police officers, leaders of the Hausa-Fulani and Igbo communities, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Okada Riders Association, Farmers’ Association, Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Vigilante and Hunters groups, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), led by State Chairman, Ambassador Gabriel Ariyo.
Discussions focused on strengthening existing security partnerships, improving community engagement, and boosting intelligence sharing. Traditional rulers emphasized the importance of securing border communities adjoining Ekiti and Kogi states to prevent cross-border threats.
Participants commended the Command’s efforts in maintaining peace and pledged continued cooperation. Farmer representatives promised to provide timely, accurate intelligence, while community leaders praised the CP’s inclusive and people-focused approach to policing.
Commissioner Lawal thanked stakeholders for their support and praised the commitment of officers across the two Area Commands. He also shared his personal contact information, encouraging direct communication of credible intelligence to aid police operations.
