A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging for their involvement in the 2022 Owo church massacre, which claimed the lives of dozens of worshippers during a Pentecost Sunday service. The attack occurred on June 5, 2022, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, when armed gunmen opened fire and detonated explosives inside and around the church premises.
Court Verdict and Sentencing
Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment on Tuesday, convicting the four defendants on multiple terrorism-related charges. The court sentenced Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris to death by hanging after finding them guilty of participating in the attack and other terrorism-related offences. A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
In addition to the death sentence, the convicted men received life imprisonment for terrorism offences and 20-year jail terms for conspiracy-related counts. The prosecution had accused them of terrorism financing, kidnapping, hostage-taking, conspiracy, and membership in a terrorist organization.
Background of the Attack
The Owo church attack remains one of the most horrific acts of violence against a place of worship in Nigeria's recent history. Worshippers had gathered to celebrate Pentecost Sunday when armed attackers struck, leaving dozens dead, including women and children, and many others injured. The attack triggered nationwide mourning and international condemnation.
Security agencies launched a massive manhunt, leading to the arrest of several suspects. During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence establishing the defendants' involvement beyond reasonable doubt, leading to their conviction.
Significance of the Ruling
The judgment marks a major milestone in efforts to secure justice for victims and families affected by the attack, who have waited years for accountability. The case has become one of Nigeria's most prominent terrorism prosecutions, testing the country's ability to investigate and successfully prosecute high-profile acts of terror.
While the convictions may bring some closure to grieving families, the memory of the Owo massacre continues to resonate. Attention is now expected to shift to possible appeals and the broader fight against terrorism and violent extremism across the country.
