Ondo govt speaks on planned ISWAP attack, urges residents to remain calm

The Ondo State Government has urged residents to remain calm and vigilant following the alert on a potential attack on some communities in the state by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group.

The Department of State Services (DSS) announced the planned attack via a memo addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

Reacting via a statement on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the state government said security reports are being acted upon by the government and relevant security agencies, adding that efforts were ongoing to ensure safety and security of life and properties in the state.

The government in a statement issued by the Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, assured that “every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in Ondo State”.

Ajanaku stated: “The leaked memo is part of regular intelligence reports that are routinely shared among security agencies and the government. Such reports are a normal part of security operations, aimed at identifying and preventing potential threats. These intelligence reports often contain varying levels of threat assessment and are used in joint operations by security agencies to enhance vigilance and take proactive measures.

DSS alerts army to imminent ISWAP attacks in Ondo, Kogi

“The public can be assured that these reports are being acted upon by the government and relevant security agencies, and necessary precautions are being taken to ensure safety and security. The emphasis remains on maintaining vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and the government to prevent and respond to any potential threats.

“We urge all residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency. We want to reassure you that every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in Ondo State.”

The commissioner disclosed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa “is in constant contact with security agencies and is taking several steps to protect residents, especially those in border communities, so that Ondo State can remain as one of the safest States in the country.”

“Once again, we appeal to residents to remain calm, go about their normal daily activities, refrain from taking laws into their hands, cooperate with security agencies and provide any information that may help prevent any threat in any part of the State,” he added.

The Star