The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four terrorists to death by hanging for the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the verdict after convicting Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris on nine counts of terrorism.
The court ruled that the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt that the convicts belonged to Al-Shabaab and actively participated in the attack. Over 40 worshippers died and more than 100 were injured when the terrorists stormed the church during Pentecost service. Evidence included confessional statements and a digital forensic report from a Tecno phone linked to the attackers.
A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was acquitted due to lack of evidence. The convicts had pleaded not guilty, alleging their confessions were coerced. However, Justice Nwite admitted the statements, citing unchallenged signatures and thumbprints. The defense plans to appeal the ruling, while the prosecution may challenge the acquittal of the fifth defendant.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa hailed the verdict as a victory for justice. He stated that the judgment sends a clear message that terrorists will face the full weight of the law. The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, urged governors to sign death warrants promptly to deter future crimes. Meanwhile, Bishop Jude Arogundade of Ondo Diocese said the church continues to care for survivors and orphans, emphasizing that no verdict can restore the lives lost.
The attack, which remains one of Nigeria’s deadliest on a place of worship, has left lasting scars on the community. Security experts called for stronger preventive measures, including youth engagement programs, to curb terrorism. The case underscores the need for swift justice in addressing violent crimes across the country.
