Ondo State Government has appealed to residents to stay calm and avoid panic following a leaked security memo warning of a possible attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province ,ISWAP, in parts of the state.
The leaked document, reportedly from the Department of State Services ,DSS, and addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, had raised public concern about a potential terror threat.
However, the state government has assured citizens that there is no immediate danger, adding that proactive measures are already in place to protect lives and property.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, explained that the leaked memo was one of many regular intelligence reports shared among security agencies to strengthen vigilance and coordination.
“The Government of Ondo State is aware of the recent security alert memo of the State Security Services addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure regarding a possible terrorist attack in some parts of the state, which got leaked to the media”, the statement read.
“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”.
Ajanaku further stated that the government is working closely with the DSS, the military, and other security agencies to prevent any form of attack, especially in border communities.
“The Ondo State government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is in constant contact with security agencies and is taking several steps to protect residents, especially those in border communities”, he said.
“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”.
He emphasised that vigilance, intelligence sharing, and cooperation between security agencies and the government remain key to detecting and stopping potential threats before they happen.
The government urged residents to remain calm and continue their normal activities, but to stay alert and report any suspicious movement to the nearest security post.
“We urge residents to continue their daily activities without fear, but to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agency”, Ajanaku advised.
“Citizens must refrain from taking laws into their hands and should instead cooperate with the authorities to ensure that the state remains peaceful”.
Ajanaku reaffirmed that the situation was under control, noting that the government’s focus is on maintaining peace and stability across the state.
Although the leaked DSS memo reportedly warned of a planned infiltration and coordinated attacks by ISWAP members, officials have since strengthened surveillance and increased security presence in sensitive areas to prevent any possible threat.
Authorities clarified that the leak does not indicate a breakdown in communication or security protocol but instead reflects the ongoing collaboration between intelligence and defence agencies to anticipate and neutralise potential dangers.
