Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended security agencies following the killing of a suspected senior Islamic State West Africa Province 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 Nigerian Army troops, operatives of the Department of State Services and the Ondo State Amotekun Corps.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the operation, according to the state government.
Security sources said Ohida had previously served as deputy to the ISWAP Central Nigeria leader, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, before assuming a leadership position following Ikrimah’s arrest in 2023.
The sources alleged that Ohida was involved in plans to carry out terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks on civilians during the forthcoming festive period.
Aiyedatiwa praised the security agencies for acting on credible intelligence and sustaining efforts to protect residents and property across the state.
He said the operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence sharing, inter-agency collaboration and proactive measures in tackling emerging security threats.
The governor assured the security agencies of the state government’s continued support and urged them to maintain vigilance and sustain operations aimed at keeping Ondo safe for residents, visitors and businesses.
