The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four out of five terrorists to death by hanging for their roles in the horrific attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which resulted in the deaths of 43 worshipers. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment on Wednesday, finding the convicted individuals guilty on all nine counts preferred against them.
Convicted Terrorists
The four sentenced to death are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25 years), Al Qasim Idris (20 years), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26 years), and Abdulhaleem Idris (25 years). They were ordered to be hanged until pronounced dead. In contrast, Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47 years) was discharged and acquitted of all charges due to lack of evidence linking him to the attack.
Legal Proceedings
The court's decision marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families. The attack, which occurred on June 5, 2022, shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation. The trial, which lasted several months, involved extensive testimonies and forensic evidence presented by the prosecution.
Justice Nwite emphasized the severity of the crime, noting that the convicts had shown no remorse for their actions. The death sentence serves as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar acts of terror. Further details of the judgment are expected to be released in the coming days.
