THE traditional ruler of Owo Kingdom in Ondo State, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has described the court judgment sentencing four suspects to death for their involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack on worshippers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church as a significant step toward justice.
In a statement issued through his Special Assistant on Media, Sam Adewale, the monarch expressed satisfaction with the verdict, noting that it brings a measure of closure to one of the darkest moments in the history of the Owo community.
According to the statement, the Olowo said the judgment would provide some relief to the families of the victims and the wider Owo Kingdom, while helping to honour the memory of those who lost their lives in the tragic attack that claimed more than 40 lives and left many others injured.
The monarch commended the judiciary for diligently handling the case and praised security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services, for their efforts in investigating the attack, apprehending the suspects, and ensuring their prosecution.
He also urged that the court’s decision be implemented without unnecessary delay, stressing that the massacre remains a painful reminder of the need to strengthen security measures across the country.
The verdict follows the conviction of four out of five suspects arraigned over the 2022 church attack, one of Nigeria’s deadliest assaults on a place of worship in recent years.
The ruling has been welcomed by many residents and stakeholders who have long awaited justice for the victims and their families.
