Security sources report ISWAP leader Ohida killed in Ondo operation

Security sources say ISWAP leader Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, was killed during a joint operation in Owo forest, Ondo State, at the weekend.

The operation involved Nigerian Army troops, personnel of the Department of State Services and officers of Amotekun, the Western Nigeria Security Network. The sources said other members of the group were also killed in the attack on their hideout, but did not give a precise number.

Channels Television cited unnamed security sources for the account. Daily Post attributed its report to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who posted the information on Monday.

According to the sources, Ohida had been deputy to Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, before Ikrimah was arrested in 2023. They said Ohida then took charge of ISWAP activities in parts of North-Central and southern Nigeria.

The sources said intelligence obtained during Ikrimah’s interrogation pointed to planned attacks on civilians during the festive period and an attempt to disrupt the 2027 elections. They also said intelligence partners from the United Kingdom supported the operation.

They linked Ohida to the December 31, 2025 attack on Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo, where rifles were taken and explosives were used against the station.

Sources: Vanguard, Channels Television, Daily Post