Aiyedatiwa praises death sentences for Owo church attackers

By Boye Oyeyemi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended the judiciary and security agencies following the conviction and death sentence of four persons found guilty of involvement in the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor described the ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja as a landmark judgment and a significant step toward justice for victims of the deadly attack.

Aiyedatiwa said the verdict reflects the determination of the government and security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of violent crimes are held accountable, regardless of how long justice takes to be served.

He stated that the judgment sends a strong warning that anyone who takes innocent lives will face the full consequences of the law, adding that it represents a victory for justice, the rule of law, and the memory of those killed in the attack.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN), also applauded the court’s decision, describing it as a major milestone in the long pursuit of justice for victims of the tragedy.

Ajulo praised the collaborative efforts of the prosecution team, the Department of State Services, witnesses, and the judiciary, noting that due process was strictly followed throughout the trial.

He maintained that while no judgment can fully heal the pain suffered by the victims’ families and the Owo community, the ruling sends a clear message that terrorism and violent extremism will not go unpunished in Nigeria.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across Ondo State, protecting religious freedom, and supporting measures aimed at preventing future attacks, while also extending condolences to the families of the victims and praying for the repose of the deceased.