A Nigerian court has sentenced four men to death for their role in the massacre of worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. T
A Nigerian court has sentenced four men to death for their role in the massacre of worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.
The attack, which occurred in June 2022, left dozens dead and many more injured, shocking the nation and drawing widespread condemnation. The convicts were found guilty of terrorism, murder, and illegal possession of firearms after a lengthy trial.
The prosecution presented evidence linking the men to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which had claimed responsibility for the assault.
Witnesses recounted the horror of the attack, where gunmen stormed the church during Sunday service, firing indiscriminately and detonating explosives. The judge ruled that the severity of the crime warranted the maximum penalty under Nigerian law.
The verdict has been welcomed by victims’ families and community members, who described it as a measure of justice for the lives lost.
Religious leaders also expressed relief, urging authorities to strengthen security around places of worship to prevent future tragedies. The sentencing underscores Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against extremist violence, particularly in regions where armed groups continue to threaten civilian populations.
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