Nigeria: 'At last, killers have been held to account'

Bishop Jude Arogundade entering St Francis Xavier Church shortly after the 2022 massacre. Image © Diocese of Ondo

Source: Aid to the Church in Need

The bishop who spearheaded a campaign for justice, following one of the worst atrocities against Christians in Nigeria in modern times, has welcomed the news that four gunmen involved have been found guilty of the crimes.

Armed men carried out a killing spree during Pentecost Sunday Mass at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, south-west Nigeria on 5th June 2022 leaving more than 40 dead and up to 100 injured.

A petition to the UK government was delivered on 5th June 2023 ACN (UK), the first anniversary of the massacre, by the human rights champions who were accompanied by National Director Caroline Hull and Head of Press & Public Affairs John Pontifex.

Four months later, Owo survivor Margaret Attah, who lost both legs and an eye in the attack, came to London and received the first ACN (UK) #RedWednesday Courage to be Christian Award which recognises heroism and faith in response to persecution.

Following the sentencing Mr Pontifex said: "I want to thank most sincerely the thousands who were moved by the suffering of Margaret and so many others to offer their prayers and their calls for justice.

"The court ruling shows that their voices have been heard. We earnestly pray that the court's judgement will help towards healing, but this process can only be completed once all those responsible have been brought to justice."

According to media reports the men all pleaded not guilty and their defence lawyer said they would appeal against the sentence.

We are all entitled to religious freedom through Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - but many are denied it.

Sign our petition today : https://acnuk.org/article-18-petition-religious-freedom-human-right-not-privilege