Nigerian security agencies have successfully eliminated a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar. The operation, which took place in Owo forest, Ondo State, was a collaborative effort between the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun. Ohida's death has dealt a significant blow to ISWAP's leadership structure and operational network in central and southern Nigeria.
According to security sources, Ohida was a former deputy to the ISWAP Central Nigeria commander, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais. Following Ikrimah's arrest by the DSS in 2023, Ohida assumed command of ISWAP operations across parts of the North-Central and southern regions. He was involved in planning, coordinating, and executing terrorist attacks, including the December 31, 2025, attack on Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo, Ondo State.
Intelligence obtained during the interrogation of Abu Uwais provided the DSS with vital information about Ohida's activities and alleged plans to attack civilians during the festive season. This intelligence was corroborated by international partners from the United Kingdom, who supported the elimination operation. The sources revealed that Ohida's plan was to attack civilians during the festive period and disrupt the 2027 general election.
Ohida was linked to several attacks on security formations and personnel across the country. He was accused of partaking in the July 28, 2022, attack on a military checkpoint along the Suleja-Zuba Road in Niger State, in which soldiers, security personnel, and civilians were killed. Additionally, he was linked to the July 11, 2022, attack on the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja and the April 23, 2022, attack on Ogaminana Police Station in Adavi LGA, Kogi State.
The elimination of Ohida represents a significant disruption to ISWAP's leadership structure and operational network in central and southern Nigeria. According to security sources, this operation underscores the growing efficiency of Nigeria's security services. Ohida's death, coming a few months after the killing of ISIS leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki, is a major blow to ISWAP's efforts to expand its operational presence in Nigeria.
The operation that led to Ohida's death was a result of collaborative efforts between Nigerian security agencies and international partners. The DSS, in conjunction with the Nigerian Army and Amotekun, raided the terror group's forest hideout, resulting in Ohida's elimination and the foiling of planned attacks during the Yuletide celebrations.
The Nigerian government's efforts to combat terrorism have received a boost with the elimination of Ohida. The security agencies' success in foiling ISWAP's plans and killing a top commander demonstrates their commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining national security. The government is expected to continue its efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of Nigerians.
Key points
- - The elimination of ISWAP commander Abdussamad Ohida was a result of collaborative efforts between Nigerian security agencies and international partners. - Ohida was linked to several attacks on security formations and personnel across the country. - The operation that led to Ohida's death foiled planned attacks by ISWAP during the Yuletide celebrations.
