Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended security agencies over what he described as their gallantry, cooperation, and intelligence-led operations, which led to the elimination of a senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander, Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, in the Owo forest axis of the state.

Ohida was reportedly killed alongside several other members of the terrorist group during a joint operation involving the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as the Amotekun Corps.

Ohida, who was said to have previously served as deputy to ISWAP Central Nigeria leader Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, had assumed a leadership role in the group’s activities following Ikrimah’s arrest in 2023.

Sources alleged that Ohida was planning major terrorist attacks in parts of southern Nigeria, including attacks targeting civilians during the forthcoming festive period.

In a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, Aiyedatiwa commended the security agencies for the swift intelligence and the commitment to protecting the lives and property of the people of Ondo State.

“The elimination of this senior ISWAP commander is a testament to what can be achieved when our security agencies work together with a shared purpose.

“I commend the Nigerian Army, the DSS, and the Amotekun Corps for their bravery, professionalism, and swift response to credible intelligence,” the statement stated.

The governor stressed that the successful operation had demonstrated the importance of inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing, and proactive security measures in confronting emerging security threats.

The governor, however, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the state remains safe and secure for residents, visitors, and businesses.

He urged the security agencies to sustain the momentum and remain vigilant, assuring them of the continued support of the state government in the collective effort to protect the people.