Kogi Activist Urges Military to Act Swiftly on DSS Intel, Praises Service for Foiling ISWAP Threats

Kogi-born political activist Usman Okai Austin has called on the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to promptly act on intelligence reports provided by the Department of State Services (DSS) to avert avoidable crises across the country.

Okai made the call on Wednesday in a statement he personally signed, following the DSS’s recent alert to the military on a planned ISWAP (Islamic State of West Africa Province) coordinated attack in Ondo and Kogi States. He said acting swiftly on such credible intelligence would help prevent potential tragedy and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s security system.

He commended the DSS for what he described as “professionalism, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to national security,” applauding its proactive intelligence sharing with the Army, Police, Civil Defence Corps, and other agencies.

“We have observed with satisfaction the level of professionalism and intelligence coordination demonstrated by the DSS. Their prompt alert on possible ISWAP attacks in Ondo and Kogi shows their commitment to their constitutional duty of preventing threats to internal security,” Okai stated.

The activist, however, expressed concern that other security agencies often fail to act swiftly on DSS intelligence, citing a previous incident in Yelwata, where an early warning was allegedly ignored, leading to loss of lives and property.

He urged state governors to hold regular security meetings with military and intelligence heads in their states, stressing that “public assurances must be backed by visible and concrete action.”

“The DSS remains a credible and professional intelligence agency that has earned the trust of Nigerians,” Okai said. “We call on the Army and other security outfits to take every DSS report seriously and act swiftly to prevent avoidable crises.”

Okai also appealed to the governors of Ondo and Kogi States to work closely with security chiefs to implement preventive measures and reassure residents through decisive action.

Reaffirming his confidence in the nation’s security institutions, Okai urged citizens to support the DSS and other agencies by providing credible information to aid the fight against insecurity.

“I commend the DSS for their proactive approach to intelligence gathering and their consistent dedication to protecting our nation. With stronger inter-agency collaboration, Nigeria will overcome its current security challenges,” he added.