Aiyedatiwa Hails Death Sentence For Owo Church Attack Convicts, Describes Verdict As Justice For Victims
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which sentenced four individuals to death for their involvement in the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo.
In a statement issued on Wednesday through his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor described the ruling as a significant triumph for justice, the rule of law, and the families of victims affected by the tragic incident.
The court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, found the four defendants guilty of terrorism-related offences connected to the deadly attack and sentenced them to death by hanging.
Reacting to the judgment, Aiyedatiwa said the verdict sends a clear signal that perpetrators of violent crimes and acts of terrorism will ultimately face justice, regardless of the time it takes to secure convictions.
According to the governor, the judgment reflects the commitment of Nigeria’s judicial system to ensuring accountability and protecting innocent citizens from criminal violence.
He commended security operatives, investigators, prosecutors, and the judiciary for their dedication and professionalism in pursuing justice for the victims and their families.
“This judgment sends a strong message that those who take innocent lives will face the full consequences of the law, regardless of how long it takes to achieve justice,” the governor stated.
Aiyedatiwa also praised the people of Owo and members of the Catholic community for maintaining peace and resilience despite the immense pain and trauma caused by the attack.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to work closely with security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen public safety measures, and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the state.
While acknowledging that no court ruling can bring back the lives lost in the attack, the governor said the judgment offers a sense of closure to grieving families and reinforces public confidence in the nation’s justice system.
He further prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and asked God to grant comfort and strength to their families and loved ones as they continue to heal from the tragedy.
AIV NEWS reports that the June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo claimed dozens of lives and left many worshippers injured, drawing widespread condemnation both within Nigeria and internationally.
