Intelligence Report Confirms ISWAP Terrorists Moving South, Governors Strengthen Regional Security

Southern Governors Mobilize Against ISWAP Influx, Strengthen Regional Security

Southern governors have activated a coordinated security response to counter the reported infiltration of terrorists from the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) into the region. Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF), Dapo Abiodun, announced the initiative, emphasizing intelligence sharing and operational synergy among the states.

Governor Abiodun reassured residents that the southern states are fully committed to securing the region amid growing concerns about fleeing terrorists from the North. His statement follows Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent warning about bandits displaced by military operations in the North-West seeking refuge in Oyo. Makinde affirmed that security forces are working to eliminate the threat.

As part of their response, Southern governors are reinforcing existing regional security networks, enhancing intelligence-gathering capabilities, and providing operational support to security agencies. Governor Abiodun, through his media aide Kayode Akinmade, outlined key security measures, including crime prevention, community policing, economic development, human rights enforcement, and inter-agency cooperation.

The governor emphasized that security is a joint responsibility of both federal and state governments, highlighting his administration’s consistent financial support for security agencies. He noted that since assuming the leadership of the SGF, he has prioritized security funding across the region, ensuring states have access to operational vehicles, communication technology, and combat equipment.

“We are strengthening joint security assessments, intelligence sharing, and coordinated actions to address common threats,” Abiodun stated. “Through meetings, calls, and interstate visits, we are ensuring a unified approach to tackling security challenges in the South.”

Meanwhile, a source within the Department of State Services (DSS) confirmed that intelligence reports had alerted security forces to the movement of terrorists into the region. The DSS official revealed that several arrests have been made, particularly in the South-West, but urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

The Chairman of the South-West Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, also confirmed that regional security outfits are on high alert. “We are aware of the reports about terrorist movements, and we are taking proactive steps to ensure they do not take us by surprise,” he said.

Similarly, Ondo State’s Senior Special Assistant on Security, Chief Olugbenga Atiba, detailed measures being implemented to counter the threat. These include joint border patrols, military operations to flush out terrorist elements, and issuing security advisories to residents.

The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has called on South-West governors to take decisive action against the infiltrators. In a statement, YCE Secretary-General Chief Oladipo Oyewole stressed the urgency of securing the region’s porous borders. “The infiltration of bandits into our forests is a serious concern,” he warned. “Governments at all levels must act swiftly to chase them out.”