DSS warns of terrorists attack in churches, markets
The Department of State Services has warned religious leaders in Osun State of an alleged plan by terrorists to attack places of worship and other locations where large numbers of people gather.
The warning was reportedly issued during separate meetings between the DSS and Muslim and Christian leaders in Osogbo on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
The security agency was said to have informed the religious leaders that terrorists were planning to move into the South-West and create insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the security alert, the suspected attackers may target churches, mosques, markets, schools, clubs and viewing centres in an attempt to cause fear and disrupt political activities ahead of the presidential election.
The President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Mustapha Olawuyi, confirmed that the meeting with the DSS took place, saying religious leaders were given measures to prevent possible attacks.
Olawuyi said the security agency had raised concerns about possible attempts to infiltrate the state and advised residents and religious leaders to remain vigilant.
He said the Muslim community had previously encountered people suspected of trying to enter the state without proper identification or knowledge of the local environment.
The DSS was also said to have advised mosque leaders against allowing vehicles to park close to worshippers during Jumat prayers or other gatherings.
The agency reportedly warned against allowing unknown persons to sleep inside mosques and urged religious centres to employ night guards.
Muslim leaders were further advised to be cautious of unfamiliar commercial motorcycle operators and herders, while worship centres were asked to strengthen their security arrangements.
The Osun State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor John Adeleke, also confirmed that the DSS met with Christian leaders over the security situation.
Adeleke said church leaders were advised to pass the warning to their members and ensure that security measures were strengthened around places of worship.
He said the DSS cautioned churches against allowing unfamiliar vehicles to park close to their premises because of the possibility that such vehicles could contain explosives.
Church leaders were also advised to properly question unfamiliar visitors before allowing them access to church premises.
Adeleke said the DSS further advised churches to be cautious about holding night programmes because criminals could take advantage of darkness to carry out attacks.
He added that CAN had circulated the security warning through its various blocs and platforms to ensure that Christian communities across the state were informed.
The CAN chairman also said school owners and operators of other facilities that attract large gatherings were advised to take their security seriously.
The warning comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, with security agencies expected to remain alert to threats that could disrupt political activities and public gatherings.
The DSS has not publicly disclosed further details about the alleged terrorist plot or identified the individuals or groups suspected to be behind it.
