ISWAP Threat Puts South-West and North-Central States on High Alert

Nigerian states across the South-West and North-Central regions have been placed on high alert after the Department of State Services (DSS) issued an intelligence warning about a potential ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) attack targeting strategic communities.

The leaked DSS memo reportedly cautioned the Nigerian Army of imminent attacks planned by ISWAP operatives. The primary targets identified include Ondo State in the South-West and Kogi State in the North-Central region.

In Ondo State, the warning specifically mentioned Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko (both in Akoko North-West Local Government Area), and Owo town, which suffered a deadly church attack in 2022 blamed on ISWAP suspects. Intelligence sources indicate that surveillance and reconnaissance activities by suspected terrorists have already begun around these areas.

Authorities in the affected regions have swiftly responded, assuring residents that security systems have been reinforced. Ondo and Kogi States confirmed receipt of the DSS alert and emphasized that the leaked document was part of routine intelligence-sharing. Both states have stepped up patrols and tightened security, particularly in border communities.

Osun State reported that its boundary communities are under proactive monitoring to prevent infiltration. Ekiti State has deployed security personnel, local hunters, and the Amotekun Corps to border areas shared with Ondo and Kogi States to bolster defense lines. Kwara State Police Command has intensified joint surveillance operations with the Army and local vigilante groups, particularly in rural and border regions. In Ogun State, authorities have expanded intelligence networks and deployed tactical patrol teams along highways and border corridors to forestall potential spillovers.

Security agencies are urging citizens to remain calm but vigilant, advising communities to promptly report any suspicious movement or unfamiliar persons. They reaffirmed that collaboration between residents, traditional rulers, and local security outfits remains crucial to preventing terrorist infiltration. The heightened alert underscores the evolving security dynamics in Nigeria’s South-West and North-Central regions, as authorities work to preempt threats from insurgent groups expanding beyond the country’s northeastern axis.