There is rising tension in parts of Ondo and Kogi States following an intelligence alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) about a planned coordinated attack by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The secret police raised the alarm in a confidential letter addressed to the Nigerian Army, warning of “imminent attacks” by the terrorist group. The letter, signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, was sent to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade in Akure, Ondo State.

According to the DSS, ISWAP operatives are plotting to strike specific communities in Ondo State, including Oyin-Akoko and Eriti-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area.

“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the DSS alert stated.

The intelligence report also revealed that ISWAP members have already begun surveillance of potential soft targets in the affected areas.

In light of the information, the DSS advised security agencies to intensify vigilance and reinforce surveillance to prevent possible attacks and ensure the safety of residents.

The latest warning has heightened fear among locals, especially in border communities between Ondo and Kogi, as security forces are expected to step up operations to foil any terror plots.