Olowo Hails Death Sentence For Owo Church Attack Convicts, Demands Immediate Execution

The Olowo of Owo Kingdom, Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has welcomed the court judgment sentencing four persons to death over the horrific 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.

The monarch described the verdict as a major step toward justice for the victims and families affected by one of Nigeria’s deadliest church attacks in recent years.

In a statement issued through his Special Assistant on Media, Sam Adewale, the traditional ruler said the judgment brought some level of closure to the painful memories of the June 5, 2022 massacre that shook the entire Owo Kingdom.

Gunmen had invaded the church during Sunday service, killing worshippers and leaving many others injured in an attack that sparked national outrage and grief across the country.

Reacting to the court’s decision, Oba Ogunoye said the ruling would provide relief to grieving families while allowing the souls of those who lost their lives to finally rest in peace.

The monarch also praised the judiciary for ensuring the case was diligently prosecuted to its conclusion despite the emotional weight and public attention surrounding it.

He further commended security agencies, especially the Department of State Services, DSS, for carrying out investigations that led to the arrest and prosecution of the suspects linked to the deadly assault.

The royal father, however, stressed that justice should not stop at sentencing alone, urging authorities to ensure the judgment is implemented without unnecessary delay.

According to him, the Owo church massacre remains a painful reminder of the growing security challenges facing communities across Nigeria and the urgent need for stronger protective measures nationwide.

The recent judgment had seen four out of the five suspects arraigned over the attack sentenced to death by the court, a ruling many residents of Owo have described as long overdue justice.