How plot to bomb Ondo govt house was foiled — Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has revealed how security operatives foiled an alleged plot by a group of youths to bomb the Ondo State Government House after uncovering the plan through intelligence gathering. Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the governor described the operation as one of several security successes recorded in the state in recent months. According to Aiyedatiwa, intelligence reports received about three to four months ago alerted security agencies to suspicious activities involving some youths who were allegedly planning an attack on the seat of government. He said the suspects initially lodged in a hotel before relocating to a rented apartment, where they allegedly continued preparations for the planned operation. Acting on the intelligence, security operatives, including personnel of the police and the Amotekun Corps, raided the location and arrested the suspects. During the operation, materials and equipment believed to be linked to the alleged bombing plot were reportedly recovered. “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 determine the motive behind the alleged plot, adding that the incident underscores the security challenges confronting the state and the importance of proactive intelligence gathering. He said the successful operation demonstrates that many security achievements often go unnoticed because attacks are prevented before they occur. “So much work is being done. Security is one responsibility that leaders carry that is not so visible to everybody. It is only when there is a lapse that it will look as if the government has not been doing enough. We have been doing so much,” he stated. The governor also said South-West governors have continued to strengthen collaboration on security matters, particularly through intelligence sharing and coordination with regional security outfits such as Amotekun. The revelation came as Aiyedatiwa welcomed the conviction of four persons linked to the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, describing the judgment as a victory for justice and the rule of law. He reassured residents that the state government remains committed to protecting lives and property through enhanced surveillance, intelligence gathering, and sustained collaboration among security agencies.