Governor reveals how plot to bomb Govt House was foiled in Southwest

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed how security agencies thwarted an alleged plot to bomb the Ondo State Government House, revealing that the operation was uncovered through intelligence reports before the suspected attackers could execute their plan.

The governor made the revelation during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he highlighted what he described as one of several major security breakthroughs recorded in the state in recent months.

According to Aiyedatiwa, intelligence gathered about three to four months ago alerted security agencies to the activities of a group of youths allegedly plotting an attack on the seat of government.

He explained that the suspects initially checked into a hotel before relocating to a rented apartment, where they were said to have continued preparations for the planned operation.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, a joint team comprising police officers and personnel of the Amotekun Corps stormed the location, arrested the suspects and recovered items believed to be connected to the alleged bombing plot.

“Following intelligence reports, the police and Amotekun moved in, raided the location, arrested the suspects, and they remain in custody,” the governor said.

Aiyedatiwa noted that investigations are ongoing to unravel the motive behind the alleged attack and determine whether other individuals were involved.

The governor said the incident underscores the critical role intelligence gathering plays in combating insecurity, stressing that many successful security operations often remain unknown to the public because attacks are prevented before they occur.

“So much work is being done. Security is one responsibility that leaders carry that is not always visible. It is only when there is a lapse that people begin to question the efforts being made. We have been doing so much,” he stated.

He further revealed that governors in the South-West region have intensified collaboration on security through intelligence sharing and coordination among state-backed security outfits, particularly Amotekun.

The disclosure comes as the governor welcomed the conviction of four individuals linked to the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, describing the judgment as a significant victory for justice and a strong signal that criminal acts will not go unpunished.

Aiyedatiwa reassured residents that his administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property through improved surveillance, proactive intelligence gathering and stronger cooperation among security agencies.