Security forces have killed a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Abdussamad Ohida, also known as Anwar, during an intelligence-led operation in Owo Forest, Ondo State.
The operation was reportedly carried out by troops of the Nigerian Army, personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) and operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun.
Ohida was killed alongside several other members of the terrorist group, according to a statement attributed to the joint task force.
Intelligence reports indicated that the ISWAP commander was allegedly planning attacks on civilians during the forthcoming Yuletide period, with an alleged broader objective of disrupting the 2027 general elections.
The intelligence, reportedly corroborated by United Kingdom security partners, prompted the coordinated assault on the terrorists’ forest hideout.
Ohida allegedly assumed control of ISWAP operations across parts of North-Central and Southern Nigeria following the arrest of his former superior, Abu Uwais, in 2023.
He was linked to several major attacks, including the December 2025 invasion of the Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo, the July 2022 attack on the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, and attacks on police and military formations in Kogi and Niger states.
His death, coming months after the reported killing of ISIS leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki, is being described as a significant setback to ISWAP’s leadership structure, operational network and expansion plans in Central and Southern Nigeria.
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