By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has welcomed the death sentence passed on four suspects responsible for
the June 5, 2022 terror attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
The convicts, identified as Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al-Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik and Abdulhaleem Idris, were found guilty on a nine-count terrorism charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) on behalf of the Federal Government.
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, Justice Emeka Nwite held that the prosecution successfully established the case against the defendants beyond reasonable doubt.
The Governor, in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, commended the Judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of the four suspects.
Aiyedatiwa 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.
He noted that the diligence of the prosecution team, the thoroughness of investigators, and the courage of the judiciary have shown that government will not tolerate acts of terror or violence against its people.
“This judgment sends a clear message that those who take innocent lives will face the full weight of the law, no matter how long it takes.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa also appreciated the resilience of the people of Owo and the Catholic community who, despite the trauma, have remained steadfast and committed to peace.
He reassured all residents that his administration will continue to work closely with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, protect public spaces, and ensure such a tragedy never repeats itself in our state.
While nothing can bring back the lives lost, the Governor said this judgment provides a measure of closure and hope that justice is possible.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and for God’s comfort for the families they left behind.
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