The Ondo State Government has moved to calm public anxiety following the leak of a Department of State Services intelligence report warning of a potential ISWAP attack on communities within the state.
State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, issued a statement on Wednesday characterizing the leaked memo as routine intelligence sharing between security agencies rather than an indication of imminent danger.
The DSS document, which was addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, reportedly contained warnings about possible infiltration and coordinated strikes by the Islamic State of West Africa Province in selected areas of Ondo State. The memo’s circulation on social media and in news outlets earlier this week sparked concern among residents.
Ajanaku explained that such intelligence assessments represent standard security procedure designed to maintain preparedness across defense and law enforcement networks.
“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,” he stated.
“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.”
The commissioner emphasized that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration maintains continuous communication with security agencies and has implemented multiple protective measures, particularly in vulnerable 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,” Ajanaku 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 stressed that the state’s security strategy prioritizes intelligence gathering, information exchange, and coordinated responses designed to identify and neutralize threats before they materialize.
The government has called on citizens to maintain their regular routines while exercising heightened awareness of their surroundings.
“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,” the commissioner 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 cautioned against spreading unverified information that could amplify public fear and urged residents to rely on official government communications for accurate updates.
Security sources indicate that surveillance operations have been intensified and border areas reinforced as preventive measures following the intelligence assessment. Officials maintain that the document’s leak does not represent a security lapse but rather demonstrates the active intelligence collaboration aimed at forestalling terrorist activities.
The commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to preserving Ondo State’s standing as one of Nigeria’s most secure regions, insisting that current conditions do not warrant public alarm.
“The situation is under control and there is no need for anxiety,” Ajanaku declared, adding that maintaining peace and stability throughout the state remains the government’s paramount objective.
