The Ondo State Government has urged residents to remain calm and avoid panic following the circulation of a leaked Department of State Services (DSS) memo warning of a possible Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) attack on some communities in the state.
ReportersNation reports that the leaked security document, allegedly sent to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, raised concerns about a potential terror threat.
However, the state government has dismissed fears of imminent danger, assuring residents that proactive measures are already in place to safeguard lives and property.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Akure, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, clarified that the leaked memo was part of routine intelligence sharing among security agencies aimed at enhancing coordination and vigilance.
“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 said.
He noted that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration is in constant communication with the DSS, the military, and other security agencies to forestall any form of attack, especially in border areas.
“The Ondo State government is taking several steps to protect residents, particularly those in border communities,” he added. “These reports are being acted upon, and necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety and security of everyone.”
The commissioner also appealed to residents to stay calm, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security operatives.
“Citizens must refrain from taking laws into their hands and should instead cooperate with the authorities to ensure that the state remains peaceful,” he advised.
Ajanaku reiterated that there was no cause for alarm, emphasizing that the government’s focus remains on maintaining peace and stability across the state.
Naija News gathered that the DSS memo, which leaked earlier in the week, reportedly warned of a plan by ISWAP fighters to infiltrate and launch coordinated attacks on select communities in Ondo.
While the development caused public concern, security agencies have since heightened surveillance and fortified strategic locations and border areas.
Officials have stressed that the memo’s leak does not indicate a security breach but underscores ongoing collaboration among intelligence and defence agencies to preempt possible threats.
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