Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described the conviction of the terrorists who attacked and killed worshippers of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, four years ago as a victory for the innocent victims.
While stressing that justice has prevailed, Aiyedatiwa commended the prosecution team as well as the courage of the judiciary since the commencement of the trial.
The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, stated that the development was an indicator that the government will not tolerate acts of terror or violence against its people.
No fewer than 40 persons were gruesomely murdered and many injured on June 5, 2022, when daredevil gunmen rained bullets on the worshippers during service in the community.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday sentenced to death four out of the five terrorists after they were found guilty in the entire nine count charges against them.
The statement partly read, “Ondo State Governor, His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended the judiciary and security agencies for securing the conviction and death sentence of the four suspects responsible for the June 5, 2022, terror attack on St Francis Catholic Church, Owo.”
“The governor described the court verdict as a victory for justice, the rule of law, and for all victims of the heinous attack that claimed the lives of innocent worshippers and left many others injured.
“He noted that the diligence of the prosecution team, the thoroughness of investigators, and the courage of the judiciary have shown that government will not tolerate acts of terror or violence against its people.
“This judgement sends a clear message that those who take innocent lives will face the full weight of the law, no matter how long it takes.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa also appreciated the resilience of the people of Owo and the Catholic community who, despite the trauma, have remained steadfast and committed to peace.
“He reassured all residents that his administration will continue to work closely with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, protect public spaces, and ensure such a tragedy never repeats itself in our state.
“While nothing can bring back the lives lost, the governor said this judgement provides a measure of closure and hope that justice is possible. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and for God’s comfort for the families they left behind.”
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