Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has commended the judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of four suspects linked to the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, describing the verdict as a major triumph for justice and the rule of law.
The governor’s reaction came following the sentencing of the suspects convicted for their involvement in the gruesome attack that shocked the nation and left scores of worshippers dead and many others injured during a Sunday service.
Similarly, the traditional ruler of Owo Kingdom, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, expressed satisfaction over the court judgment, declaring that justice had finally been served for the victims, their families and the entire Owo community.
The attack on the Catholic church remains one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in recent Nigerian history.
No fewer than 41 worshippers lost their lives when armed attackers invaded the church premises during mass on the fateful day, unleashing violence and causing widespread panic among residents of the ancient town.
Several other worshippers sustained varying degrees of injuries, while families and survivors were left traumatised by the horrific incident.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the successful prosecution and sentencing of the suspects demonstrated that acts of terrorism and violence against innocent citizens would not go unpunished.
The governor described the court verdict as “a victory for justice, the rule of law, and for all victims of the heinous attack that claimed the lives of innocent worshippers and left many others injured.”
Aiyedatiwa commended security agencies for their commitment, professionalism and persistence throughout the investigation and prosecution process that eventually led to the conviction of the suspects.
He also praised the judiciary for ensuring that justice was delivered without fear or favour despite the emotional and national significance of the case.
According to the governor, the judgment should serve as a strong warning to criminal elements and enemies of peace that Ondo State would not tolerate acts of terror or violence against law-abiding citizens.
He reiterated the commitment of his administration to strengthening security architecture across the state in collaboration with federal security agencies and local communities.
Aiyedatiwa further sympathised with families who lost loved ones during the attack, noting that while the pain and trauma might never completely disappear, the court judgment represented an important step toward healing and closure.
The governor urged residents of the state to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with useful information capable of preventing future attacks.
Reacting to the development, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ogunoye, said the verdict had restored confidence in the justice system and reassured the people that the blood of innocent worshippers would not be forgotten.
The monarch stated that the entire Owo Kingdom had waited patiently for justice since the tragic incident occurred nearly four years ago.
He noted that the attack brought immense sorrow and fear to the community, as many families lost breadwinners, children and relatives in the incident.
According to the traditional ruler, the conviction and sentencing of the perpetrators would help bring some level of comfort to grieving families and survivors who have struggled with emotional and psychological trauma since the attack.
Oba Ogunoye also commended the resilience displayed by residents of Owo in the aftermath of the tragedy, praising religious leaders, health workers, security personnel and volunteers who provided support to victims during the difficult period.
The June 2022 church attack attracted national and international condemnation, with political leaders, religious organisations and civil society groups demanding swift action against those responsible.
The Federal Government had subsequently intensified investigations into the incident, leading to the arrest and prosecution of suspects connected to the attack.
The tragedy also reignited national conversations on insecurity, terrorism and the protection of places of worship across the country.
Security experts have since called for stronger intelligence gathering, community policing and enhanced surveillance around public gatherings and religious centres.
For many residents of Owo, the latest court judgment represents a significant milestone in the long journey toward justice and healing after one of the darkest moments in the town’s history.
Although memories of the attack remain painful, community leaders believe the conviction of the suspects sends a powerful message that perpetrators of violent crimes will eventually be brought to justice.
The Catholic community in Owo and beyond has also continued to remember the victims through prayers, memorial activities and appeals for lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
As the state government and residents reflect on the judgment, many hope the outcome will strengthen public confidence in the nation’s justice system and reinforce the collective resolve against terrorism and violent extremism.
