Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has directed residents to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious persons or movements to security agencies following intelligence about alleged plans by terrorists to attack worship centres and other public places in the state.
Adeleke’s reaction came after reports emerged that the Department of State Services (DSS) had met with leaders of the Osun Muslim Community and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over intelligence concerning a possible terrorist mobilisation to states across the South-West.
According to the intelligence presented at the meeting, the alleged plot was aimed at causing violence and creating fear ahead of the 2027 general elections, potentially discouraging citizens from participating in the electoral process.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor urged residents, particularly those in border communities, to alert security agencies to any unusual activities or influx of unfamiliar individuals.
“We must provide the police and other security agencies with intelligence reports on noticeable threats in our communities. As we are aware of alleged plots to attack our places of worship, we must become extra vigilant. Report anything unusual without any delay,” Adeleke said.
The governor commended the DSS for what he described as proactive measures to address the reported threats, while directing other security agencies to assess the situation and strengthen their response plans.
Adeleke also announced plans to convene a meeting of the Osun State Security Council to review the intelligence and determine appropriate measures to protect residents and public facilities.
“I will soon convene the State Security Council meeting to assess the situation and the workability of our response plans. As residents of this state, we must collaborate with the security agencies through information sharing,” he said.
The governor further urged residents to exercise caution when hosting unfamiliar people in their communities and called on traditional rulers to discuss the development during their respective traditional council meetings.
He stressed that the state government would continue to prioritise peace and security, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 elections.
“Our administration is committed to post-election peace-building, and we must tighten state security to foil any attempt by terrorists and bandits to disrupt public peace,” Adeleke said.
The governor’s warning comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of the South-West, with residents urged to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information on potential threats.
