AIYEDATIWA REVEALS FOILED PLOT TO BOMB ONDO GOVERNMENT HOUSE

AIYEDATIWA REVEALS FOILED PLOT TO BOMB ONDO GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed that security operatives successfully foiled an alleged plot to bomb the Ondo State Government House following an intelligence-led operation carried out several months ago.

The governor made the revelation during an appearance on a national television programme while discussing the security situation in the state, particularly in the wake of the recent conviction of individuals linked to the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo.

According to Aiyedatiwa, intelligence reports received by security agencies indicated suspicious activities involving a group of youths allegedly planning an attack on the seat of government in Akure. Acting on the information, security operatives launched a coordinated operation that led to the arrest of several suspects.

The governor explained that the suspects initially stayed in a hotel before relocating to a rented apartment. Security personnel later raided the location and reportedly recovered materials believed to be connected to the planned attack.

He stated that officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, carried out the operation, leading to the arrest of the suspects who remain in custody while investigations continue.

Aiyedatiwa noted that security agencies are still working to determine the motive behind the alleged plot, stressing that intelligence gathering remains a critical tool in preventing security threats before they materialize.

The governor said many successful security interventions often receive little public attention because attacks are prevented before they occur.

He emphasized that security management is one of the most demanding responsibilities of government, adding that significant efforts are being made behind the scenes to safeguard lives and property across the state.

South-West Governors Strengthen Security Collaboration

Aiyedatiwa further disclosed that governors across the South-West region are intensifying cooperation through intelligence sharing and joint security initiatives aimed at addressing emerging threats.

He highlighted the role of the Amotekun Corps and ongoing engagements among state governments in strengthening regional security architecture and improving operational coordination among security agencies.

The governor reiterated that collaboration among the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), Amotekun Corps, local vigilante groups, and community stakeholders remains central to the state's security strategy.

Owo Church Attack Convictions Hailed

Commenting on the recent court judgment involving the 2022 Owo church massacre, Aiyedatiwa welcomed the conviction of four individuals linked to the attack, describing the outcome as a significant victory for justice and the rule of law.

The June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo shocked the nation after gunmen opened fire on worshippers during a Sunday service, leaving more than 40 people dead and several others injured.

The governor said the convictions provide a measure of justice for victims and their families, while reaffirming the government's commitment to ensuring accountability for criminal acts.

Commitment to Public Safety

Aiyedatiwa assured residents that his administration would continue investing in intelligence gathering, surveillance systems, and security partnerships to strengthen safety across Ondo State.

He reaffirmed the government's determination to protect lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information that could help prevent criminal activities.

The governor expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among security stakeholders would continue to enhance peace and stability throughout the state.