Following security alerts issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged plot by terrorists to attack worship centers and public places in Osun State, faith leaders have adopted strict preventive measures to protect congregations across the state.
The intelligence warning was delivered during separate high-level briefings held between officials of the DSS Osun State Command and leadership bodies of the Christian and Muslim communities on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, in Osogbo, the state capital.
According to a internal report signed by the State Assistant Secretary of Osun CAN, Ajayi J.K., intelligence indicates that insurgent groups have mapped out key targets in Osun State, moving via Kaduna and Jos, to instigate panic and voter apathy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Places highlighted as potential targets include churches, mosques, open markets, schools, viewing centers, and recreational clubs.
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Speaking on behalf of the Christian body, the Osun State CAN Chairman, Pastor John Adeleke, confirmed that security guidelines have been shared across all blocs and platforms.
Key directives for churches include; Vehicle Parking Distance, parking vehicles directly adjacent to church auditoriums is prohibited; car parks must be moved at least 100 meters away.
Access Control & Visitor Profiling; Church security teams are mandated to inspect bags, profile unfamiliar visitors, and question new faces before granting entry. Churches are advised to discourage overnight vigils, unessential late-night gatherings, and late travel.
Church leaders were advised to stop publicly celebrating wealthy members whose sources of income are unclear.
The President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustapha Olawuyi, confirmed the threat level and noted that an audio directive had been dispatched to all Chief Imams across the state.
Key directives for mosques include Jumat Service Restrictions; Strict bans on parking cars or motorcycles near mosque buildings during Friday Juma’at prayers.
Visitors and congregational members are strictly prohibited from sleeping inside mosque premises. The Imams and security heads were instructed to deploy night guards, profile strange herders entering communities, and monitor compromised commercial motorcyclists.
In a statement issued by his official spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke commended the DSS for its proactive intelligence work.
Governor Adeleke assured residents that security agencies are fully mobilized and urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious individuals or movements to nearby law enforcement units.
