The Catholic Diocese of Ondo has praised the Federal High Court's judgment against those behind the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo.
Bishop Jude Ayodeji Arogundade described the ruling as a watershed moment in the pursuit of justice.
The court delivered its verdict on June 3, 2026. Arogundade issued a statement on Thursday welcoming the decision.
In his words, the judgment represents progress in holding perpetrators accountable. He acknowledged that no court ruling can bring back the dead or heal the trauma inflicted on survivors.
"The judgment affirms an important principle: that human life is sacred," the bishop noted. "Those who commit acts of terror against innocent people must face the law," he added.
Arogundade commended Nigeria's judiciary for handling the case with diligence. Security agencies, investigators and prosecutors also earned his praise for their investigative work.
He told reporters the ruling offers some comfort to bereaved families. It proves the victims' suffering hasn't been abandoned or forgotten.
Still, Arogundade cautioned against confusing justice with vengeance. He urged Christians to uphold values of truth, mercy, peace and reconciliation.
His diocese pledged continued support for affected families. Memorial initiatives, scholarship programmes and empowerment projects are already underway.
Pastoral care and prayers remain constant too, the bishop confirmed. The diocese plans to intensify these efforts going forward.
As the attack's fourth anniversary approaches, Arogundade called on government and security chiefs to remain alert. Community leaders and ordinary citizens must also stay vigilant, he insisted.
Protection of lives and worship centres across Nigeria demands everyone's commitment. Arogundade stressed this message as the nation remembers Owo's darkest day.
