In Nigeria, four militants were sentenced to death for attacking a Catholic church in Owo

Four Islamic militants found guilty of attacking the Catholic Church of St. Francis Xavier in the city of Owo in southwestern Nigeria have been sentenced to death. The attack took place on June 5, 2022, during a Pentecost Mass: more than 40 people were killed, and about 100 were injured. According to Christian Today, the court also imposed additional prison terms on the defendants for related charges.

According to the publication, the sentence was handed down to Idris Abdulmalik Omeize, Al-Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhalim Idris. They attacked the church using firearms and explosive devices. Children were among the dead, and the attack itself was one of the deadliest in Nigeria in recent years.

In addition to the death penalty, which requires presidential approval, the defendants were sentenced to symbolic life terms for their alleged membership in the terrorist group al-Shabaab, as well as 20-year terms for conspiracy. According to court documents, the defendants had also planned attacks on other targets, including a public school. A fifth defendant was acquitted due to insufficient evidence.

Among those injured in the attack was Margaret Atta, who lost both her legs and one eye. In 2023, she received the inaugural #RedWednesday Courage to be Christian Award from Aid to the Church in Need, which honors courage and fidelity to the faith in the face of persecution.

Bishop Jude Arogundade, whose diocese includes St. Francis Xavier Church, participated in a special Mass commemorating the anniversary of the tragedy. In a statement to Aid to the Church in Need, he said that bringing the case to a close is important for the families of the victims and those affected, although, he noted, complete healing is impossible: many people remain traumatized, are undergoing treatment, and live in fear.

The bishop also emphasized that the Catholic Church does not support the death penalty, but considers it necessary to hold the perpetrators accountable. He called on the authorities to continue the investigation and ensure that all those involved in organizing and carrying out the attack are brought to trial.