Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has vowed to track down and prosecute those responsible for the attack and bombing of the Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo Local Government Area. The attack occurred on New Year’s Eve, raising concerns about security during holiday celebrations in the state.
The governor made the pledge after presiding over an emergency meeting of the State Security Council in Akure. The meeting was convened to review the attack and to evaluate measures to prevent future security breaches.
According to reports, about 30 armed assailants, riding on motorcycles, stormed the police facility late Wednesday night. They detonated an explosive device while residents were attending crossover church services to welcome the new year.
Governor Aiyedatiwa disclosed that security agencies across Ondo State have been placed on full alert to forestall further incidents. He explained that the attackers were forced to retreat due to the swift and coordinated response of security operatives.
“Security agencies responded immediately, compelling the assailants to flee. The prompt action taken ensured that the situation was quickly brought under control and the impact of the attack was significantly limited,” the governor said.
Despite the brazen attack, Governor Aiyedatiwa confirmed that no lives were lost. The attackers managed to gain access to the police station and set off an explosive device, but the rapid intervention of security forces prevented any casualties.
“They were able to breach the facility, but the speed with which security agencies responded helped to contain the situation. Thankfully, no casualties were recorded,” he added.
The governor also stated that while the police station building sustained damage, all officers on duty were unharmed and have since resumed patrols in the area to maintain security.
The emergency meeting of the State Security Council focused on evaluating the incident, reviewing the effectiveness of the security response, and implementing additional measures to prevent recurrence. Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of proactive measures to protect lives and property, particularly during holiday periods when many residents gather for celebrations.
“The safety of our citizens is our priority. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure that such attacks do not happen again. Security agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant and respond swiftly to any threat,” the governor said.
The meeting also highlighted the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and coordination among different security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant authorities in the state.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 17, Ajani Musibau, visited the scene of the attack and condemned the incident in strong terms. He described it as a serious and unacceptable threat to public peace and security.
“Such acts of violence against law enforcement agencies are criminal and will not be tolerated. We are committed to ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” Musibau said.
Nigeria has faced a range of security challenges in recent years, including attacks by armed gangs, banditry, and targeted assaults on law enforcement facilities. In some states, criminal groups have used explosives and firearms to attack police stations, government offices, and military posts. These acts are intended to intimidate security forces and create instability in local communities.
Ondo State, like many other parts of the country, has implemented measures to counter these threats. The state government has worked closely with the police, military, and intelligence agencies to monitor high-risk areas and respond promptly to any attacks.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s swift response to the Ipele police station attack is part of ongoing efforts to reassure residents and prevent further security breaches. Analysts say that visible government action, including emergency meetings and increased security presence, can help restore public confidence and deter criminal activity.
The governor also reassured residents that the state government is committed to ensuring their safety. He urged the public to remain calm and vigilant while security agencies conduct investigations and increase patrols in vulnerable areas.
“Residents should not panic. Security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and arrested. We call on everyone to cooperate with the authorities and report any suspicious activities,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.
Local community leaders in Owo and surrounding areas have also expressed relief that no lives were lost during the attack. They commended the quick response of security forces, which prevented the situation from escalating.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the attackers and their sponsors. The state government is coordinating with federal security agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
“We are determined to pursue the attackers wherever they are. The law will take its course, and justice will be served. We cannot allow acts of terror to undermine peace in our communities,” the governor said.
The Ondo State government has also intensified patrols around other strategic locations and public facilities to prevent copycat attacks. Security checkpoints have been reinforced, and officers have been instructed to remain alert, especially during periods of high civilian activity such as festive events and public gatherings.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions reflect a broader commitment by Nigerian state governments to protect citizens and ensure that security threats are addressed swiftly. Analysts note that timely interventions, combined with intelligence-led operations, are critical in deterring armed groups from targeting public institutions.
As Ondo State continues to monitor the situation, residents of Ipele and other vulnerable communities have been urged to cooperate with security forces and remain cautious. The state government has assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in identifying and prosecuting the attackers.