At least 30 heavily armed gunmen attacked the Divisional Police Station in the Ipele community, Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, on New Year’s Eve, authorities have confirmed.
According to Jimoh Abayomi, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo, the attackers stormed the facility around 10:00 p.m., carrying assault rifles and dynamite, setting the station and its exhibits ablaze. Residents reportedly fled the area in panic as the fire spread.
The incident comes days after the Amotekun Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed that over 35 suspected terrorists fleeing airstrikes in Sokoto State were apprehended in Ondo forests, raising concerns about heightened terrorist activity in the region.
Abayomi described the attack as a tragic assault on the peace and security of the state but assured the public that the situation is under control. He confirmed that a manhunt for the attackers, who fled the community after the raid, has been launched by the police in coordination with other security agencies.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the attackers invaded the station at around 9:41 p.m., fired assault rifles, and used explosives, leading to significant destruction of the building and police exhibits. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported at the time of this update,” Abayomi said.
In response, the Commissioner of Police has ordered the deployment of additional operational assets, including Tactical Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal–CBRN units, and Police Mobile Force personnel to secure the area and prevent further attacks.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm while investigations and security operations continue.
Watch video below..
BREAKING: There is an ongoing attack in Ipele, Owo Local Govt Area, Ondo State Nigeria. An attack carried out by terrorists on police Station. Residents have flee into hiding, amid concerns of inadequate response from Nigeria security agencies. Below is the Police station set… pic.twitter.com/kysHO4ncmh
— Kiu tv (@KizyUzoma) December 31, 2025