Governor Aiyedatiwa urges calm over the Ondo security alert, assuring residents that government and security agencies are working to protect lives and property.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of the rising Ondo security alert, assuring that his administration is working around the clock with relevant security agencies to protect lives and property.
He said the government has taken proactive measures to prevent any breach of peace across Ondo State.
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the governor explained that the state government maintains constant contact with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Police Force, and the Nigerian Army.
He noted that all agencies are on high alert and working jointly to prevent any possible attack linked to the recent intelligence warning.
The assurance followed the circulation of a confidential DSS memo indicating that suspected members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) were planning coordinated assaults on communities in Ondo and Kogi States.
The memo, dated October 20, 2025, was addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure.
According to the document, ISWAP operatives had already begun surveillance on “soft targets” in Eriti Akoko, Oyin Akoko, and Owo town. The DSS warned that there was a need to heighten security to forestall possible attacks.
“The groups have commenced surveillance on potential soft targets in the above-mentioned locations. Consequently, there is a need to scale up security alertness to prevent any untoward situation,” the DSS report stated.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said his administration was aware of the Ondo security alert before the memo became public and had already taken steps to boost surveillance and intelligence gathering.
He disclosed that additional security personnel had been deployed to strategic areas, especially border communities and identified flashpoints.
“The Ondo State Government is in constant touch with all security formations. Our goal is to ensure that Ondo remains one of the safest states in Nigeria,” the statement read.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to support the armed forces, the police, and local vigilante groups with logistics, intelligence, and community cooperation to guarantee lasting peace.
While acknowledging the public’s concern over the Ondo security alert, the governor appealed to citizens not to panic or spread fear.
He advised residents to go about their normal daily activities and report any suspicious movement to nearby security formations.
“We urge our people to stay calm, avoid panic, and promptly report strange movements or individuals. The government is fully in control and determined to protect every citizen,” Aiyedatiwa assured.
He also cautioned against self-help actions that might worsen the situation, emphasizing that the fight against insecurity requires cooperation, not fear or chaos.
The government clarified that the leaked DSS memo was part of routine intelligence-sharing among security agencies, which helps them anticipate and prevent potential threats.
Such communications, it explained, are standard practice in inter-agency coordination and do not signify immediate danger.
“These intelligence reports serve as precautionary guides for proactive responses,” the statement noted.
“They are meant to enhance vigilance, not to cause panic.”
Ajanaku added that the ongoing Ondo security alert demonstrates that the system is working — intelligence gathering, communication, and collaboration among agencies are active and effective.
Aiyedatiwa assured that all relevant agencies remain on high alert. Security operations have been intensified, and joint patrols are ongoing across the state.
“The public can be confident that all necessary measures are in place. The government and security operatives are fully committed to ensuring peace and stability,” he emphasized.
He encouraged community leaders, traditional rulers, and local vigilante groups to work closely with the government and share intelligence promptly. According to him, public participation is vital to defeating any form of terrorism.
The current Ondo security alert has reignited fears about the spread of terrorism into southern Nigeria.
Security analysts have warned that extremist groups are expanding operations beyond the northeast, exploiting forested areas and border routes.
Ondo, with its strategic location between the North and South, has become a key focus for both federal and state security forces.
The 2022 Owo church massacre, where over 40 worshippers were killed, remains a painful reminder of the dangers of complacency.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated that his administration will continue to invest in technology, community policing, and intelligence sharing to counter the Ondo security alert and any future threats.
He said the government’s quick response to the DSS report shows that Ondo State is not waiting for problems to escalate before acting.
“Our administration prioritizes security because it is the foundation of development. We are alert, coordinated, and determined to keep Ondo safe,” he stated.
He also expressed gratitude to security personnel for their sacrifices, urging them to maintain professionalism and vigilance in their operations.
The rising Ondo security alert has prompted both government and citizens to remain cautious, yet confident.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s calm assurance, coupled with coordinated action from security agencies, aims to prevent a repeat of past tragedies. Residents are urged to remain observant, cooperative, and hopeful that Ondo State will continue to stand strong against all forms of insecurity.
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