Aiyedatiwa Pledges Justice for Owo Massacre Victims, Reaffirms Security Commitment
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s determination to pursue justice for victims of the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack in Owo, describing the tragedy as one of the darkest moments in the history of the state.
The governor made the pledge on Saturday at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade.
Aiyedatiwa, who was the special guest of honour, praised the bishop’s resilience and compassion in shepherding the church through the aftermath of the massacre, calling him “a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity.”
The Owo attack, carried out by terrorists wielding rifles and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), claimed the lives of about 40 worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church and left scores wounded.
The memory of the incident, Aiyedatiwa noted, still lingers painfully in the hearts of the people, with many survivors continuing to live with both physical and emotional scars.
While assuring families of the victims that his government would not relent until justice is achieved, the governor stressed that security remains a cardinal focus of his administration. He highlighted ongoing efforts to fortify security across the state, including the recent procurement of 75 high-grade Hilux patrol vehicles fitted with modern communication and surveillance gadgets to support security agencies.
Aiyedatiwa further disclosed that the state government provides monthly logistics support to security operatives to ensure sustained vigilance and effective response to threats. According to him, these measures have contributed to Ondo’s reputation as one of the safest states in the country.
“The combined effect of this collaboration is the wide acknowledgement of Ondo State as one of the most secure in Nigeria. Our people now go about their daily businesses with a sense of safety, and this has also encouraged massive inflows of investors into the state,” he said.
Commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development in Ondo State, the governor expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between government, religious institutions, and communities would further consolidate peace and security.
Bishop Arogundade, who survived the emotional weight of shepherding his flock through the Owo tragedy, was lauded for his courage and unwavering commitment to justice.
His leadership, Aiyedatiwa said, “has been a source of healing and inspiration to thousands.”
The anniversary which drew dignitaries, clerics, and faithful from across the country, was marked by prayers, thanksgiving, and renewed calls for justice and peace.
