Owo Church Attackers Get Death Sentence by Hanging

The Ondo State High Court has sentenced those who attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo to death by hanging. This attack happened on June 5, 2022, and claimed 40 lives while injuring many more during a Sunday service.

The court found the three men guilty of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and terrorism. Justice Olusegun Odusola, who presided over the case, said the actions of the attackers were planned and aimed at creating fear in the community.

During the trial, the prosecution showed strong evidence. This included testimonies from survivors and forensic reports that connected the attackers to the crime. The judge stressed that a clear message must be sent to prevent future terrorism in Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The three men, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, did not show any remorse during the trial. Their lawyers asked for a lighter sentence, mentioning their backgrounds and lack of previous convictions. But the court said the seriousness of the crime called for the maximum punishment.

The public's reaction to the sentencing has been mixed. Many people feel relief that justice has been done, while others are calling for deeper solutions to tackle the root causes of terrorism in Nigeria.