The Ondo State Government has acknowledged the existence of a recently leaked security memo from the State Security Services (SSS) to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, which suggested a possible terrorist attack in certain parts of the state.
The New Daily Prime gathered that SSS alerted the Nigerian Army to an alleged planned attack to be launched on communities in Ondo and Kogi States by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP.
In the letter signed by HI Kana, SSS warned of “imminent attacks” by ISWAP terrorists and urged heightened surveillance and security deployment across vulnerable areas.
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However, the state government, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, clarified that the memo was a routine intelligence report regularly shared between security agencies and the administration.
Ajanaku explained that these reports are standard practice in security operations, used to assess potential dangers, enhance vigilance, and facilitate proactive measures and joint operations by security forces.
“The leaked memo is part of regular intelligence reports that are routinely shared among security agencies and the government”, he said, assuring the public that these reports are being acted upon.
Ajanaku stressed that necessary precautions are being taken to guarantee public safety and security.
He affirmed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration is in constant communication with security agencies and is taking steps to protect residents, especially those in border communities, to maintain the state’s status as one of the country’s safest.
He urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency.
Ajanaku reassured the populace that every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in the state.
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Ajanaku appealed to citizens to continue with their normal daily activities, cooperate with security agencies, and provide any useful information.
He also cautioned against any attempts by individuals to take the law into their own hands.