AKURE, Nigeria (FN), The Ondo State Police Command said Thursday it has arrested six people accused of plotting to bomb government facilities in the state capital, Akure. Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal told reporters the suspects were taken into custody following intelligence reports and added that 10 other suspected criminals were apprehended in separate operations across the state, bringing the total number of arrests to 16.
Lawal said the arrests underscore the command’s commitment to preventing attacks on public institutions and maintaining peace in the state. He noted that investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged once inquiries are complete.
Nigeria has grappled with sporadic plots targeting government buildings and critical infrastructure in recent years. In 2021, security agencies foiled an attempt to detonate explosives near a federal facility in Abuja, while in 2023, police in Kano arrested several suspects linked to a planned attack on state offices. Authorities have repeatedly warned that extremist groups and criminal networks continue to seek opportunities to disrupt governance and instill fear.
The Ondo arrests come amid heightened security measures nationwide, as police and military units intensify patrols and intelligence gathering to counter threats. Lawal urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing that community cooperation is vital to preventing attacks.
Officials said the suspects remain in custody and investigations will determine whether they have ties to larger networks operating within or outside the state.
