ISWAP leader Ohida killed in intelligence-led operation in Ondo

A senior leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, Abdussamad Ohida, has been killed in an intelligence-led operation by a joint team of the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services and Amotekun.

TheCable reported that Ohida, also known as Anwar, was killed at the weekend in Owo forest, Ondo State, alongside several other members of the terrorist group.

Security sources said Ohida was planning attacks on civilians during the festive period and intended to disrupt the 2027 general election.

Ohida reportedly became a key ISWAP leader across parts of the North-Central and southern regions after his former superior, Abu Ikrimah, also known as Abu Uwais, was arrested by the DSS in 2023.

The sources said intelligence obtained from Abu Uwais helped security agencies uncover Ohida’s plans.

“The plan was to attack civilians during the festive period and ultimately disrupt the 2027 general election,” the sources said.

They added that British intelligence partners corroborated the information.

Ohida was also accused of planning the December 31, 2025 attack on Ipele police station, where eight AK-47 rifles were reportedly stolen.