Security forces launch joint operation to thwart ISWAP threat in Ondo, Kogi forests

A coordinated security operation is underway in Ondo and Kogi states as Nigerian military forces, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS) intensify efforts to prevent imminent attacks by suspected members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).

According to Daily Trust, the sweeping exercise—conducted in collaboration with Amotekun operatives, local hunters, and forest guards—is focused on combing dense forest areas believed to harbor fortified terrorist cells. Intelligence reports indicate that ISWAP operatives have infiltrated several communities across both states, raising fears of a repeat of the deadly June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, which claimed at least 41 lives.

Security sources revealed that the DSS has issued a memo warning of coordinated attacks targeting soft spots in Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko (Akoko North-West LGA), and Owo town. The letter, signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the Ondo State DSS Director, urged the Nigerian Army’s 32 Artillery Brigade to heighten surveillance and deploy forces to vulnerable areas.

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“The intelligence confirmed plans by ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the memo stated. “The group has commenced surveillance on potential soft targets… There is a need to scale up the level of security alertness to forestall any untoward situation.”

The DSS also emphasized the importance of community vigilance in preventing attacks, noting that efforts are ongoing to dismantle terrorist cells and that arrests are expected soon.

In Kogi West senatorial district, five local government areas—Lokoja, Kabba/Bunu, Yagba West, Yagba East, and Ijumu—have been plagued by banditry, with numerous ambushes resulting in the deaths of policemen, vigilantes, traditional rulers, and civilians.

Security agencies have assured the public that they are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to neutralize threats and safeguard lives and property across the affected regions.

Security forces launch joint operation to thwart ISWAP threat in Ondo, Kogi forests