Akure, Ondo State | The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over an imminent terrorist attack planned by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Ondo and Kogi States.
In a memo marked “Secret” and dated October 20, 2025, the DSS said intelligence reports confirmed that ISWAP operatives were planning coordinated assaults on several communities in the coming days.
Communities on the Terror Group’s Radar
The confidential letter, addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure, identified the following Ondo State communities as potential targets:
- Eriti-Akoko
- Oyin-Akoko — both in Akoko North West Local Government Area
- Owo Town — in Owo Local Government Area
According to the DSS, ISWAP members have already begun surveillance and monitoring of soft targets, referring to places that are less protected and more vulnerable to attacks.
The memo, signed by Hi Kana J on behalf of the State Director of Security (Ondo State), urged security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Army, to increase their level of alertness in the affected areas.
It stated:
“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon.
It was further gathered that the groups have commenced surveillance on potential soft targets in the above-mentioned locations. Consequently, there is a need to scale up the level of security alertness in the various communities to forestall any untoward situation.”
Although the memo was intended for internal military use, its contents have caused concern among residents after it was leaked. Many locals in Owo and Akoko communities have appealed to the government for immediate security reinforcement around schools, churches, mosques, and public gathering spots.
Security experts have also advised the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movement, strange persons, or unidentified vehicles to security authorities.
So far, neither the Ondo State Government, the Kogi State Government, nor the Nigerian Army has made an official statement regarding the DSS alert.
Who Are ISWAP?
The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) is a breakaway faction of the Boko Haram terrorist group. The organisation operates mainly in northeastern Nigeria but has, in recent years, spread its activities to parts of the North Central region.
ISWAP is known for targeting security personnel, markets, schools, and places of worship. If their presence extends further into the South West, as the DSS intelligence suggests, it could signal a dangerous expansion of their network.
The DSS has called on all security formations in Ondo and Kogi to tighten patrols, boost surveillance, and prevent potential attacks. Residents are advised to remain calm but cautious, as security agencies take action to safeguard lives and property.
