Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended the judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of four persons found guilty of the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor described the verdict as a triumph of justice, the rule of law, and a significant step toward healing for the victims and families affected by the tragic attack.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the judgment demonstrated the commitment of the government and relevant institutions to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
He praised the prosecution team for its diligence, investigators for their thorough work, and the judiciary for its courage and professionalism throughout the trial.
According to the governor, the ruling sends a strong message that acts of terrorism and violence will not be tolerated and that those responsible for taking innocent lives will face the full consequences of the law, regardless of how long the process takes.
Aiyedatiwa also lauded the resilience of the people of Owo and members of the Catholic community who have remained peaceful despite the pain and trauma caused by the attack.
He reassured residents of the state’s commitment to strengthening security through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced protection of public spaces, and closer collaboration with security agencies to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
While acknowledging that the judgment cannot restore the lives lost in the attack, the governor noted that it offers a measure of closure to grieving families and renews hope in the justice system.
He further prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and for divine comfort for their families.