DSS RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED TERROR PLOT TARGETING OSUN PUBLIC PLACES

The Department of State Services has alerted religious leaders in Osun State to intelligence suggesting that terrorists may be planning attacks on worship centres, markets and other locations where large numbers of people gather. The alleged plot is believed to be part of an attempt to create insecurity in the South-West and disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The warning was issued during separate meetings between DSS officials and representatives of the Muslim and Christian communities in Osogbo on Wednesday, September 9. The security agency reportedly advised the religious leaders to strengthen security around their facilities and remain vigilant over suspicious movements, vehicles and unfamiliar persons within their communities.

The President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Mustapha Olawuyi, confirmed that the meeting took place and said the security alert should be taken seriously. He disclosed that the DSS had informed the Muslim community of intelligence suggesting that terrorists were seeking to move towards southern Nigeria, particularly the South-West, with the intention of creating fear and insecurity that could discourage people from participating in the 2027 election.

Christian leaders were also given specific security measures to pass on to churches and their members. The Osun State CAN chairman, Rev. John Adeleke, said church leaders were advised not to allow unknown persons to park vehicles close to church premises and were urged to be cautious about organising night programmes. A report circulated among Christian groups also identified churches, mosques, markets, schools, clubs and viewing centres as places requiring increased vigilance.

The security warning has prompted renewed calls for residents to remain alert and report suspicious activities to security agencies. The DSS and religious leaders have urged communities not to panic but to take reasonable preventive measures, particularly around crowded locations and during religious activities, as security agencies work to prevent any attempt to spread terrorism into Osun and other parts of the South-West.