How ISWAP’s southern expansion plot was foiled, commander killed in Ondo forest
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readA joint operation by the Nigerian Army, DSS, and Amotekun, backed by UK intelligence, successfully eliminated ISWAP commander Abdussamad Ohida in Ondo State. This mission effectively neutralized a plot to conduct terrorist attacks during the festive season and disrupt upcoming electoral processes.
Context & Background
- ✦ISWAP has been attempting to expand its operational footprint from the North-East into southern Nigeria by utilizing thick forest reserves as safe havens.
- ✦Rural communities in Ondo State, including Akure North and Owo, continue to suffer from kidnapping and banditry, leading to the abandonment of farms and economic distress.
Key Figures & Named Entities
Abdussamad Ohida (Anwar):Senior ISWAP commander killed in the Owo Forest operation.Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa:Ondo State Governor who issued a 14-day ultimatum to criminals and revealed a foiled plot to bomb the Government House.Oba Olu Falae:Traditional ruler of Ilu-Abo who highlighted the ongoing insecurity affecting farmers and residents.
Outlook & Next Steps
Security agencies are maintaining surveillance and forest-combing operations to prevent remaining terrorist cells from establishing a southern corridor, while regional governors continue to push for the establishment of state policing.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- Nigerian security forces, supported by UK intelligence, killed senior ISWAP commander Abdussamad Ohida in an operation within the Owo Forest, Ondo State.
- The operation successfully foiled a planned terrorist plot to launch coordinated attacks on civilians during the festive period and disrupt 2027 election preparations.
- Despite the elimination of the commander, rural communities in Ondo State continue to face significant threats from kidnapping and banditry, prompting calls for state policing.
Key Facts:19 days before the operation: Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa issued a 14-day ultimatum for criminal elements to vacate state forest reserves.2023: Abdussamad Ohida took control of ISWAP's central and southern regional activities following the arrest of his superior.December 31, 2025: Eight AK-47 rifles were stolen and a police facility was bombed during an attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Station.
Editorial Excerpt
Ohida took over ISWAP’s central and southern regional after the 2023 arrest of his superior, Abu Ikrimah (Abu Uwais) inside an Ondo forest
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
Who was Abdussamad Ohida and why was he significant?
Ohida was a senior ISWAP commander who coordinated the group's central and southern regional activities and was responsible for multiple attacks on security formations.
What is the current stance of the Ondo State government on forest security?
The government is actively clearing forests of criminal elements, with Governor Aiyedatiwa confirming that a 14-day ultimatum was issued and that security agencies are conducting ongoing operations.
