Ondo terror alert prompts Governor Aiyedatiwa to increase security presence and urge calm, following leaked memo on suspected ISWAP attack plans

Ondo terror alert has prompted swift response from the state government, as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa urged residents to remain calm while assuring that security agencies are actively working to forestall any possible attacks.

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The reassurance follows a leaked memo from the Department of State Services (DSS), which revealed intelligence on a suspected ISWAP plot targeting communities in Ondo and Kogi States.

According to the memo dated 20 October 2025, the Islamic State of West Africa Province had commenced surveillance on “soft targets” in Eriti Akoko, Oyin Akoko, and Owo—locations identified as potential strike points.

Signed by H.I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, the document was addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, urging increased vigilance and coordinated response.

“The groups have commenced surveillance… Consequently, there is a need to scale up the level of security alertness,” the memo stated.

In reaction, Governor Aiyedatiwa, throughInformation Commissioner Idowu Ajanaku, confirmed the state was already acting on the intelligence and in close coordination with the Nigerian Police Force, DSS, and the Nigerian Army.

“Security has been beefed up across the state, especially in identified flashpoints. Surveillance and intelligence gathering have been intensified,” the governor said.

He assured the public that Ondo remains one of the safest states in the country, and all security channels are active in preventing any breach.

The government emphasised that the leaked memo was part of routine intelligence-sharing, urging residents not to panic or spread misinformation.

“These reports often contain varying levels of threat assessment and are part of standard preventive operations by security forces.”

The governor called on the public to report suspicious activities, avoid vigilantism, and maintain peace while the state works proactively with the armed forces.

This warning arrives just three years after a devastating ISWAP attack in Owo, where over 40 worshippers lost their lives during Sunday mass at a Catholic church—an event that remains fresh in the public memory.

Security analysts have in recent months raised alarms about increased insurgent activity creeping into Nigeria’s southern states, a trend previously concentrated in the North East.

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With the Ondo terror alert now public, the government’s message is clear: residents should stay alert, not afraid, as every available resource is being deployed to ensure safety and peace.