•Govt reassures residents of safety, orders increased border surveillance
•Aiyedatiwa convenes top-level security meeting
By Bukola Olamona
Following the circulation of a leaked security memo from the Department of State Services (DSS), Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has convened a high-level meeting with security stakeholders in Ondo State to review existing safety measures and strengthen intelligence coordination across the state.
The leaked memo, reportedly addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, had raised concerns over possible terrorist infiltration in some areas, sparking anxiety among residents.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, said the government had taken immediate steps to address the issues raised in the intelligence report.
He noted that the governor had been in constant communication with heads of security agencies to ensure coordinated surveillance and a rapid response, particularly in border communities considered vulnerable.
According to Ajanaku, the government’s priority is to protect lives and property while preventing the spread of fear among citizens.
He stated, “The governor has met with all security chiefs in the state. Every agency has been placed on alert, and the state is fully prepared to respond to any threat. Residents are therefore advised to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives.
“The leaked memo was part of routine intelligence exchanges among security institutions and not an indication of an immediate threat.”
The commissioner urged residents to avoid spreading panic or misinformation, assuring them that Ondo remains safe and that proactive steps are being taken to maintain peace and stability.
He also called on citizens to report strange movements or suspicious persons to security agencies, adding that the state government would continue to work closely with federal security formations to sustain Ondo’s record as one of the most peaceful states in the country.
Recall that DSS had raised the alarm over an imminent coordinated attack by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), on some communities in Ondo and Kogi States.
In a letter dated October 20, 2025, addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, and signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, the DSS disclosed that intelligence reports had confirmed plans by ISWAP terrorists to strike selected locations within the two states.
According to the alert, target areas in Ondo State, include Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government area.
The agency further revealed that the terrorist group had begun surveillance on potential soft targets within the identified areas, prompting the need for heightened vigilance and increased security presence.
The DSS, therefore, urged security operatives to step up their level of alertness to forestall any untoward incident that might arise from the planned attacks.
The letter concluded by conveying the highest regards of the State Director of Security to the Brigade Commander.