The Federal high court in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging over their involvement in the deadly attack carried out on June 5, 2022.
The attack occurred in Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State leading to the killing of over 40 worshippers.
However, the convicts were found guilty on charges related to the gruesome attack, which claimed several lives and left many others injured, sending shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond.
Delivering judgment, the court held that the prosecution had successfully proved its case against the four defendants,Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris (20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), and Abdulhaleem Idris (25). Holding them beyond reasonable doubt which consequently result in sentences to death by hanging.
However, the court discharged and acquitted one of the defendants, Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47) ruling that the evidence presented against the individual was insufficient to establish guilt.
The judgment marks a significant development in the prosecution of those linked to one of Nigeria’s deadliest attacks on a place of worship in recent years.
Reacting to the sentences, Ondo state Governor, His Excellency, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has lauded the judiciary and the security agencies for the success of the conviction. He described the verdict as victory while noting the hard work of the prosecution team including the thoughtfulness of the investigating team.
His Excellency further expressed his gratitude to the commitment and cooperation of the people of Owo. Including the Catholic Church community despite the trauma encountered. While he reiterated his pledge in continuing to strengthen security in his administration towards protecting the public.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
