BREAKING: COURT SENTENCES FOUR OWO CHURCH ATTACK CONVICTS TO DEATH BY HANGING

Owolabi Oyeniyi

ABUJA, NIGERIA — In a landmark judgment that has reignited conversations about terrorism, justice, and accountability in Nigeria, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging for their roles in the horrific June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State.

The convicts are:

• Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25)
• Al Qasim Idris (20)
• Jamiu Abdulmalik (26)
• Abdulhaleem Idris (25)

The court found them guilty on multiple counts bordering on terrorism, conspiracy, kidnapping, hostage-taking, terrorism financing, and the use of explosives that resulted in deaths and serious injuries. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment after a lengthy trial prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS).

A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted after the court held that the prosecution failed to establish sufficient evidence linking him to the attack.

THE ATTACK THAT SHOCKED THE NATION

The attack occurred during a Sunday Pentecost Mass at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, on June 5, 2022. Gunmen and explosives were reportedly used in the assault, resulting in the deaths of dozens of worshippers, including women and children, while many others sustained life-altering injuries. The massacre was widely condemned across Nigeria and internationally as one of the deadliest attacks on a place of worship in the country’s recent history.

LEGAL ANGLE

The judgment represents one of the most significant terrorism convictions in Nigeria in recent years.

Under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, acts of terrorism resulting in loss of life attract severe penalties, including capital punishment where applicable.

The court not only imposed death sentences on the four convicts but also reportedly sentenced them to life imprisonment on counts relating to membership of a terrorist organization and additional prison terms for conspiracy offenses.

The ruling is expected to serve as a strong warning to individuals and groups involved in terrorist activities and may strengthen public confidence in the ability of the justice system to prosecute complex terrorism-related cases successfully.

HUMAN RIGHTS PERSPECTIVE

While the judgment may bring a measure of closure to the families of victims, human rights advocates continue to emphasize that justice extends beyond punishment. Authorities are urged to improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community-based security structures, and ensure adequate protection of citizens to prevent future attacks.

The Owo tragedy remains a painful reminder of the devastating human cost of terrorism and the urgent need for effective security measures across Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

Nearly four years after the devastating Owo church massacre, the Federal High Court’s judgment marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families. Although no judgment can restore the lives lost, many Nigerians see the verdict as a powerful statement that acts of terrorism will not go unpunished.

As the nation continues to confront insecurity and violent extremism, the Owo case stands as a critical test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of human life.