Osun On Alert: Churches, Mosques And Markets Targeted In Alleged Terror Plot

The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted Muslim and Christian leaders in Osun State to an alleged plan by terrorists to attack places of worship and other public gathering centres in an attempt to create insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Ireporter Online, the warning followed intelligence reportedly received by the security agency indicating that terrorists were seeking to expand their activities into the southern part of Nigeria, particularly the South-West, as the country approaches the 2027 presidential election.

The DSS reportedly held separate meetings with representatives of the Muslim community and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Osogbo, where religious leaders were advised to strengthen security measures and remain vigilant.

President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Mustapha Olawuyi, confirmed that the meeting with the DSS took place on Wednesday and said religious leaders were briefed on preventive measures to guard against possible attacks.

Olawuyi said the security agency warned of an alleged plot involving terrorists and some politicians to create tension and disrupt the 2027 election.

He said the DSS had intelligence suggesting that terrorists could mobilise towards the southern part of the country, particularly the South-West, with the aim of causing violence, discouraging voters or preventing the election from holding in affected areas.

According to him, religious centres were specifically advised to increase vigilance during gatherings and to pay attention to suspicious vehicles and individuals around their premises.

Olawuyi said mosque authorities were advised against allowing vehicles to park close to congregations during Jumat prayers or other gatherings. They were also reportedly advised not to allow unknown persons to sleep inside mosques and to be cautious about potentially compromised commercial motorcycle operators and herders.

He added that mosque authorities were encouraged to provide night security personnel as part of measures to protect worshippers and facilities.

The Muslim leader also commended the DSS for what he described as its intelligence-gathering and early-warning efforts.

Similarly, Chairman of the Osun State chapter of CAN, Pastor John Adeleke, said Christian leaders were instructed to pass the security alert to churches and school owners across the state.

Adeleke said churches were advised to be cautious about unfamiliar vehicles parked around their premises and to properly screen visitors before granting them access.

He also said Christian leaders were advised to exercise caution over night programmes because criminals could exploit darkness to carry out attacks.

According to him, the message was subsequently circulated among CAN’s various blocs and platforms to ensure that churches and other members of the Christian community were informed.

Adeleke also urged school owners to strengthen security and remain vigilant, stressing that the government was aware of the security concerns.

A report of the meeting with the DSS, signed by Osun CAN Assistant State Secretary Ajayi J.K., reportedly stated that the security agency had intelligence suggesting that terrorists had mapped parts of Osun State as potential targets.

The report alleged that the attackers could move through parts of northern and central Nigeria before reaching Osun State, although the claims have not been independently verified.

It listed churches, mosques, markets, schools, clubs and viewing centres among the public gathering locations that could potentially be targeted.

The DSS reportedly urged religious leaders and other stakeholders to tighten security around such locations and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

The warning comes as security agencies and other stakeholders continue to monitor potential threats to public safety ahead of the 2027 general elections.