Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended security agencies for the elimination of a senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander, Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, in the Owo forest. The operation involved troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and personnel of the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps). Aiyedatiwa described the operation as a major security breakthrough in the state.
According to security sources, Ohida previously served as deputy to the ISWAP Central Nigeria leader, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais. Following Ikrimah's arrest in 2023, Ohida assumed a leadership role in the group's activities across parts of the North-Central and southern regions. The sources alleged that Ohida was planning major terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks targeting civilians during the forthcoming festive period.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the operation, which was carried out based on credible intelligence. Aiyedatiwa said the operation demonstrated the importance of cooperation among security agencies, intelligence sharing, and proactive measures in confronting emerging security threats. He commended the security agencies for acting on credible intelligence and carrying out a coordinated operation to protect residents of the state.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring that Ondo remains safe and secure for residents, visitors, and businesses. He urged the security agencies to sustain the momentum and remain vigilant. The governor assured the agencies of the continued support of the state government in the collective effort to protect lives and property.
The governor's commendation is a boost to the efforts of the security agencies in the fight against terrorism. The operation is seen as a significant blow to the ISWAP group, which has been carrying out attacks in parts of Nigeria. The security agencies involved in the operation have been working together to share intelligence and coordinate their efforts.
The Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps) played a key role in the operation, alongside the Nigerian Army and DSS. The Amotekun Corps was established by the Ondo State government to tackle insecurity in the state. The corps has been working closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety of residents.
The elimination of Ohida is seen as a major victory for the security agencies in the fight against terrorism. The government has assured residents of its commitment to ensuring their safety and security. The security agencies have been urged to remain vigilant and continue to work together to prevent future attacks.
Key points
- The operation was carried out based on credible intelligence and involved a coordinated effort by the Nigerian Army, DSS, and Amotekun Corps.
- Ohida was planning major terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks targeting civilians during the forthcoming festive period.
- The governor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring that Ondo remains safe and secure for residents, visitors, and businesses.
