Senior ISWAP Leader Abdussamad Ohida Killed in Owo Forest Operation
Combined Nigerian Army, DSS, and Amotekun forces carried out an intelligence‑led operation in Owo forest, Ondo State.
In Brief
- •Combined Nigerian Army, DSS, and Amotekun forces carried out an intelligence‑led operation in Owo forest, Ondo State.
- •The operation eliminated ISWAP senior leader Abdussamad Ohida (Anwar) and several other members.
- •Ohida had planned large‑scale attacks, including a December 31, 2025 assault on Ipele Divisional Police Station and potential attacks during Yuletide to disrupt the 2027 elections.
- •Intelligence on these plans came from interrogation of Abu Uwais and was corroborated by UK partners.
- •The operation followed the 2023 arrest of ISWAP Central Nigeria leader Abu Ikrimah.
Why It Matters
The removal of a senior ISWAP commander weakens the group’s operational capacity in southern Nigeria and disrupts planned attacks that could have targeted civilians and political events. It also signals continued pressure on the organization following the 2023 arrest of its central leader, potentially reducing the threat to security and stability in the region.
Key Details
- Targeted Leader
- Abdussamad Ohida (Anwar)
- Operation Date
- Weekend of 2026-10-04/05
- Location
- Owo forest, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Associated Terrorist Group
- Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)
- Previous Leader Arrested
- Abu Ikrimah (2023)
- Planned Attack Date
- December 31, 2025
Original Reporting & Sources
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