Ondo govt allays fear over leaked security memo, says not indication of imminent terrorist attacks

By KEMI KASUMU
“The public can be assured that these reports are being acted upon by the government and relevant security agencies, and necessary precautions are being taken to ensure safety and security.”
The government of Ondo State, South West Nigeria has spoken on a recent security memo issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) but leaked out through the sleeves of the system.
The state government, in a statement titled, “RE: LEAKED SECURITY MEMO ON POSSIBLE TERRORIST ATTACK IN SOME PARTS OF ONDO STATE”, confirmed validity of the documented security alert but allayed fears that it was an indication of imminent terrorist attacks of any sort.
Issued by Mr. Idowu Ajanaku, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, the statement not only spoke the fact that the government was aware of the security alert but also assured the people of actions being taken to mitigate the effects or stop the crime before it is hatched.
“The Government of Ondo State is aware of the recent security alert memo of the State Security Services addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure regarding a possible terrorist attack in some parts of the state, which got leaked to the media.
“The leaked memo is part of regular intelligence reports that are routinely shared among security agencies and the government. Such reports are a normal part of security operations, aimed at identifying and preventing potential threats. These intelligence reports often contain varying levels of threat assessment and are used in joint operations by security agencies to enhance vigilance and take proactive measures.
“The public can be assured that these reports are being acted upon by the government and relevant security agencies, and necessary precautions are being taken to ensure safety and security. The emphasis remains on maintaining vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and the government to prevent and respond to any potential threats.
“We urge all residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency. We want to reassure you that every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in Ondo State.
“The Ondo State government, led by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is in constant contact with security agencies and is taking several steps to protect residents, especially those in border communites, so that Ondo State can remain as one of the safest States in the country.
“Once again, we appeal to residents to remain calm, go about their normal daily activities, refrain from taking laws into their hands, cooperate with security agencies and provide any information that may help prevent any threat in any part of the State,” the statement said.