Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has commended the judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of four suspects involved in the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
The governor described the court’s verdict as a significant triumph for justice and the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Aiyedatiwa said the judgment represents justice for the victims of the horrific attack, which claimed the lives of several worshippers and left many others injured.
He noted that the ruling offers hope to grieving families and reinforces public confidence in the nation’s justice system.
The governor praised the diligence of the prosecution team, the professionalism of investigators, and the courage demonstrated by the judiciary throughout the trial process.
According to him, the successful prosecution underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice, regardless of how long it takes.
Aiyedatiwa stressed that the verdict sends a strong warning to criminals and terrorists that acts of violence against innocent citizens will not go unpunished. He reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and all forms of criminality within the state.
The governor also commended the resilience and peaceful disposition of the people of Owo and members of the Catholic community who have endured the trauma of the attack. He acknowledged their steadfastness in the face of tragedy and assured residents that his administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
While noting that no judgment can restore the lives lost in the attack, Aiyedatiwa said the court’s decision provides a measure of closure for the victims’ families.
He pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and protect public spaces, while offering prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their loved ones.
