The Ondo government has assured residents that it is working closely with security agencies to forestall any possible terrorist attack.

In a statement on Wednesday by information commissioner Idowu Ajanaku, the Ondo government urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.

“The Ondo state government, led by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is in constant contact with security agencies and is taking several steps to protect residents, especially those in border communities, so that Ondo state can remain one of the safest states in the country,” the statement said.

It further advised residents to avoid panic, go about their normal activities, and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security formation.

“Once again, we appeal to residents to remain calm, go about their normal daily activities, refrain from taking the law into their hands, and provide any information that may help prevent any threat in any part of the state,” it added. “These intelligence reports often contain varying levels of threat assessment and are used in joint operations by security agencies to enhance vigilance and take proactive measures.”

It reaffirmed that the state government and security operatives were fully engaged in ensuring that the safety and peace of the state were not compromised.

“The public can be assured that these reports are being acted upon, and necessary precautions are being taken to ensure safety and security,” the statement said. “The emphasis remains on maintaining vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and the government to prevent and respond to any potential threats.”

The alert comes three years after suspected ISWAP militants carried out a deadly attack on a Catholic church in Owo, killing more than 40 worshippers during Sunday mass.

In recent months, security experts have voiced concerns over the spread of terrorist activities into parts of southern Nigeria, after years of insurgent violence that had been largely confined to the North-East.