Ondo Governor Orders Heightened Security After Community Attack

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed a significant increase in security patrols across communities and forested areas of Ondo State. This order follows a violent armed attack on the Ipele-Owo community in Owo Local Government Area on New Year’s Eve.

The governor issued the directive on Thursday during an emergency meeting with heads of security agencies at the Government House in Akure. The session was convened specifically to address the Wednesday night incident.

According to reports, approximately 20 armed individuals entered the agrarian community around 10:00 p.m., firing shots indiscriminately. The assailants targeted the local police divisional station, which was set ablaze after an explosive was discharged. The attack caused widespread panic, forcing residents and police officers to flee for safety.

An eyewitness described a scene of terror, with many residents, including those returning from New Year services, compelled to escape into nearby bushes.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that upon being alerted, he immediately contacted security chiefs to deploy reinforcements. He confirmed that the swift mobilization of joint security teams, including the Army, Police, and the regional Amotekun Corps, helped contain the situation.

“Nobody lost their life,” the governor affirmed. He reported that while the police station was damaged, all officers survived and have rejoined patrols. The emergency meeting focused on reviewing the response and implementing measures to prevent a recurrence.

Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, also present at the meeting, clarified that initial social media reports of casualties and church attacks were false. He confirmed that no lives were lost and no churches were affected.

“Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of damage and to recover any items taken from the police armoury,” CP Lawal said. He cautioned against premature labeling of the attack, stating it was “too early to conclude that they were terrorists” until arrests are made and investigations concluded.

The Commissioner reassured the public, describing Ondo as one of the safest states in southern Nigeria, and urged citizens to remain calm and confident in the security agencies.