The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised alarms over an imminent terrorist attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) on communities in Ondo and Kogi states. A confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, warns of credible intelligence regarding coordinated assaults planned by the insurgents.
The memo, signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command, specifically identifies Eriti Akoko, Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, and Owo town in Owo Local Government Area as potential targets. The DSS has called for heightened security operations to prevent any attacks, emphasizing the need for immediate action to safeguard lives and property.
This alert comes three years after the tragic June 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed by suspected ISWAP militants during a morning mass.
In response to the security alert, Ondo Police Commissioner Adebowale Lawal convened a security meeting with stakeholders from the two Police Area Commands in the Akoko region—Ikare and Iwaro-Oka. The meeting aimed to consolidate existing security partnerships and foster collaboration between the police and community members.
Participants, including traditional rulers, police officers, and leaders from various community groups, commended the police for their efforts in maintaining peace and pledged to support the police with actionable intelligence to reduce crime. Police Commissioner Lawal expressed appreciation for the collaboration and shared his contact information, urging attendees to report credible information that could aid police operations.
