ARMY, DSS, AMOTEKUN ELIMINATE SENIOR ISWAP LEADER IN OWO FOREST

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By: Fasasi Hammad

A combined team of Nigerian Army troops, Department of State Services (DSS) operatives and members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, has eliminated a senior leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Abdussamad Ohida, during an intelligence-led operation in Owo Forest, Ondo State.

Security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed this in a report shared on his official X account on Monday, citing security sources.

According to the report, Ohida, also known as Anwar, was killed alongside several other members of the terrorist group after security forces launched a surprise assault on their hideout.

Sources said Ohida was allegedly planning large-scale attacks in parts of southern Nigeria before he was eliminated.

The ISWAP commander reportedly previously served as deputy to the group’s Central Nigeria leader, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, who was arrested by Nigerian security operatives in 2023.

Following Ikrimah’s arrest, Ohida allegedly assumed responsibility for ISWAP activities across parts of the North-Central and southern regions, where he played a key role in planning, coordinating and executing terrorist operations.

According to the report, intelligence obtained during the interrogation of Abu Uwais provided the DSS with information about Ohida’s alleged plans to attack civilians during the forthcoming festive period.

The source said the suspected plan was also aimed at disrupting the 2027 general elections.

“The plan was to attack civilians during the festive period and ultimately disrupt the 2027 general elections,” the source was quoted as saying.

The intelligence was reportedly corroborated by intelligence partners in the United Kingdom, who allegedly supported the operation that led to Ohida’s elimination.

The source further alleged that Ohida was responsible for planning and executing the December 31, 2025 attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo, Ondo State.

During the attack, the assailants reportedly carted away AK-47 rifles before using explosives to destroy the police station.