Residents of Ondo State have reacted with concern following Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s revelation that security agencies recently thwarted an alleged plot to bomb the Ondo State Government House in Akure.
The governor disclosed the development during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, saying the operation was one of several security breakthroughs achieved through intelligence-led efforts in the state.
According to Aiyedatiwa, security operatives acted on intelligence reports received about three to four months ago regarding the activities of a group of youths suspected of planning an attack on the seat of government.
He explained that the suspects were initially traced to a hotel before relocating to a rented apartment, where security personnel later conducted a raid.
The operation, carried out jointly by the police and the South-West security network, Amotekun, reportedly led to the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of materials believed to be linked to the planned attack.
“Following intelligence reports, the police and Amotekun moved in, raided the location, arrested the suspects, and they remain in custody,” the governor said.
While investigations are still ongoing, Aiyedatiwa said authorities have yet to establish the exact motive behind the alleged plot.
He, however, maintained that the incident highlights the importance of sustained intelligence gathering and cooperation among security agencies in addressing emerging threats.
The governor noted that many successful security interventions often escape public attention because they prevent attacks before they occur.
“Security is one responsibility that leaders carry that is not always visible. It is often only when there is a breach that people question whether enough is being done. We have been doing so much,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa also stressed that governors across the South-West have intensified collaboration on security matters, particularly through information sharing and support for regional security initiatives.
According to him, recent engagements among governors in the region have focused on strengthening collective responses to security challenges and enhancing the effectiveness of Amotekun and other security structures.
The governor's disclosure came as he welcomed the conviction of four individuals connected to the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo.
Describing the judgment as a milestone in the pursuit of justice, he said it offered some measure of closure to victims and families affected by the attack.
The Owo church massacre left more than 40 worshippers dead and several others injured after gunmen attacked congregants during a Sunday service.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that Ondo State continues to invest in intelligence gathering, surveillance systems and stronger collaboration among security agencies and local communities to prevent future threats.
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