DSS Raises Alarm Over Planned Terrorist Attack In Osun….Gov Adeleke Calls For Vigilance Among Residents

Religious leaders in Osun State have begun strengthening security around places of worship and other public gathering centres following an alert by the Department of State Services, DSS, over a suspected plan by terrorist groups to carry out attacks in the state.

The warning reportedly covers churches, mosques, schools and National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, orientation camps, with security agencies alerted of possible threats.

Intelligence available to the DSS indicates that the suspected groups are mobilising resources across several regions of the country, including the North-Central, North-West, North-East and South-West.

According to the security assessment, the planned attacks may be connected to efforts to create fear and instability ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development has consequently prompted security agencies and community leaders to review existing measures around locations that attract large gatherings.

Responding to the alert, the President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustapha Olawuyi, described the security information as genuine and said Muslim leaders had been advised to take precautionary steps.

He urged worshippers to remain observant and avoid actions that could expose them to unnecessary risks during religious activities.

Olawuyi specifically advised against allowing vehicles parked close to worshippers during Jumat prayers and other gatherings.

Similarly, the Osun State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Reverend John Adeleke, said the outcome of the meeting with the DSS had been communicated to Christian platforms across the state for necessary security measures.

Reverend John appealed to religious leaders and worshippers to remain vigilant while expressing confidence in God’s protection over the state.

In the meantime, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has urged residents across the state to strengthen community vigilance following reports of plans by terrorists to attack places of worship, schools and markets.

Governor Ademola Adeleke who made this known in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed on Sunday advised residents to promptly alert security agencies whenever they notice suspicious persons, movements or activities capable of threatening public safety in their area.

The Governor who paid particular attention to communities along the state’s borders, charged residents to monitor unusual influx of strangers and movements while exercising caution over people they accommodate or allow into their communities.

He further called on traditional rulers across the state to convene meetings of their traditional councils to discuss the reported security threats and mobilise residents towards greater vigilance and effective information sharing with security agencies.

Senator Ademola Adeleke assured the residents of Osun State that his administration would continue to work closely with security agencies to protect lives and property adding that his administration remained committed to post-election peace building across the state.