Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended the gallantry and intelligence-led operations of security agencies following the elimination of a senior Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, commander, Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, in the Owo forest.
Ohida was reportedly killed alongside other members of the terrorist group during a joint operation involving troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, and personnel of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the operation.
Security sources said Ohida, who previously served as deputy to the ISWAP Central Nigeria leader, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, assumed a leadership role in the group’s activities across parts of North-Central and southern Nigeria following Ikrimah’s arrest in 2023.
The sources also alleged that Ohida was planning major terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks targeting civilians during the forthcoming festive period.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the security agencies for acting swiftly on credible intelligence and for their sustained commitment to protecting lives and property in the state.
He said the successful operation underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing and proactive security measures in confronting emerging security threats.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Ondo State remains safe and secure for residents, visitors and businesses.
He urged the security agencies to sustain the momentum and remain vigilant, assuring them of the continued support of the state government in the collective effort to protect the people.
