Joint security operations foil planned Yuletide terror attacks and eliminate senior ISWAP commander Abdussamad Ohida.
Nigerian security agencies have successfully eliminated a senior ISWAP commander named Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, during a high-stakes intelligence-led operation conducted over the weekend.
The joint military and security raid took place in the Ondo State Owo forest, where the terror group had established a strategic hideout to plan coordinated assaults across southern regions of the country, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
This decisive action successfully neutralized multiple terrorist members and disrupted violent plans targeting civilians, with international intelligence partners from the United Kingdom providing critical operational support.
Joint Military Operation in Owo Forest
The successful neutralization of the ISWAP commander was executed by a combined team of Nigerian Army troops, operatives from the Department of State Services, and personnel from Amotekun, the Western Nigeria Security Network.
Intelligence gathered from the previous interrogation of Abu Uwais, the arrested former Central Nigeria commander, provided vital clues that exposed Ohida and his network operating from the dense Ondo forest hideout.
Foiling Yuletide and 2027 Election Plots
Security sources confirmed that the neutralized militant leader was actively organizing coordinated terror attacks aimed at disrupting the upcoming festive Yuletide celebrations across southern Nigeria.
Furthermore, authorities revealed that the terror cell had broader ambitions to disrupt the upcoming 2027 general election, making the successful military intervention a critical milestone for national security and stability.
Track Record of Major Terror Attacks
The slain commander was previously linked to several high-profile assaults, including the December 31, 2025, attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Station in Ondo State, where explosives were deployed.
His extensive criminal record also spans the July 11, 2022, Kuje Correctional Centre raid in Abuja, the Suleja-Zuba Road checkpoint attack, and multiple security installations across Kogi State and Niger State.
Major Blow to ISWAP Leadership Structure
Security analysts describe the elimination of Abdussamad Ohida as a massive setback for the operational network and expansion efforts of the terrorist organization within central and southern regions of Nigeria.
Coming shortly after the killing of ISIS leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki, this development underscores the growing synergy and efficiency of the country's armed forces and intelligence agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Abdussamad Ohida?
Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, was a senior ISWAP commander who assumed operational leadership in central and southern Nigeria following the 2023 arrest of Abu Ikrimah.
Where was the ISWAP commander eliminated?
He was eliminated by a combined security team during an intelligence-led raid in the Owo forest located in Ondo State, Nigeria.
What attacks was Abdussamad Ohida linked to?
He was linked to major attacks including the Kuje Correctional Centre raid in Abuja, the Ipele Divisional Police Station assault, and a naval checkpoint attack in Kogi State.
How did security agencies track down the ISWAP commander?
Security forces tracked him down using critical intelligence obtained from the interrogation of arrested former commander Abu Uwais, supported by intelligence partners from the United Kingdom.
