Aiyedatiwa, Olowo hail judiciary on Owo terrorists judgment

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has lauded the judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of four suspects implicated in the June 5, 2022 terror attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo. The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, also expressed his satisfaction, stating that justice had been served following the brutal attack that claimed the lives of 41 worshippers and left many injured.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the court's verdict as a triumph for justice, the rule of law, and the victims of the heinous attack. He emphasized the diligence of the prosecution, the thoroughness of the investigators, and the courage of the judiciary, asserting that the government will not tolerate acts of terror or violence against its citizens. "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," Aiyedatiwa stated.

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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.

The governor extended his appreciation to the people of Owo and the Catholic community for their resilience and commitment to peace despite the trauma. Oba Ogunoye, while commending the judiciary, also called on the government and security agencies to conduct further investigations to apprehend and prosecute anyone else involved in the massacre, directly or indirectly.

"I think we’re happy that finally those accused, four out of five have been convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. I would say to a large extent, it is justice served," Oba Ogunoye remarked. He added that the verdict would bring significant relief to the people of Owo and Nigerians generally. He also thanked the Federal Government and the Department of State Services (DSS) for their diligent prosecution efforts and the judiciary for meeting the expectations of the people, suggesting that consistent convictions in past cases could have reduced the wave of insecurity in Nigeria.

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I think we’re happy that finally those accused, four out of five have been convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. I would say to a large extent, it is justice served.