Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa
Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has commended the security agencies for neutralizing a senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander, Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, in the Owo forest of the state.
In a statement on Monday by the Information and Orientation commissioner, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, the governor praised the gallantry, cooperation and intelligence-led operations of the various security agencies which was in line with the standing policy of his administration to make Ondo State a no go area for criminals and terrorists.
He commended the security agencies for acting swiftly on credible intelligence and for their sustained commitment to protecting the lives and property of the people of Ondo State.
According to him, the successful operation underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing and proactive security measures in confronting emerging security threats.
He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that Ondo State remains safe and secure for residents, visitors and businesses.
The governor 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.
Ohida was reportedly killed alongside several 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, also known as the Amotekun Corps.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the operation.
Security sources said Ohida, who previously served as deputy to ISWAP Central Nigeria leader Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, had 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 further alleged that Ohida was planning major terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks targeting civilians during the forthcoming festive period.
