Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has commended the judiciary and security agencies following the death sentence handed to four suspected terrorists over the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo.
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday convicted and sentenced the suspects to death for their role in the gruesome attack that claimed the lives of 41 worshippers and left many others injured on June 5, 2022.
Reacting to the judgment, Aiyedatiwa described the ruling as a victory for justice, the rule of law, and for families of the victims affected by the tragic incident.
“The diligence of the prosecution team, the thoroughness of investigators, and the courage of the judiciary have shown that government will not tolerate acts of terror or violence against its people,” the governor said.
He added that the verdict sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence will face the full weight of the law, regardless of how long it takes.
The governor also praised the resilience of the Owo community and the Catholic faithful, noting their commitment to peace despite the trauma of the attack.
While acknowledging that no judgment can bring back the lives lost, Aiyedatiwa said the ruling offers some measure of closure and renewed hope for justice.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, protect public spaces, and prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
The governor also prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and comfort for their families.
