By Erewunmi Peace

The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over possible coordinated attacks by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) in parts of Ondo and Kogi States.

According to reports, a confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Owena Cantonment in Akure, warned of intelligence suggesting that ISWAP operatives are planning to strike selected locations in both states.

The memo, reportedly leaked to the media, mentioned that surveillance activities by suspected terrorists had been noticed around Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Security sources disclosed that the suspected ISWAP members have been mapping out “soft targets” for possible attacks and urged heightened vigilance and patrols within the affected communities.

In response, the Ondo State Government has assured residents that there is no cause for panic. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through his spokesperson, stated that the DSS alert is part of routine intelligence sharing among security agencies and that proactive measures have been taken to ensure the safety of citizens.

Similarly, the Ondo State Police Command has reportedly met with community leaders and security stakeholders to strengthen surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts across the identified flashpoints.

While the DSS alert has prompted heightened security awareness, residents are advised to remain calm, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security operatives as joint forces work to avert any potential attack.