It was a bloody Sunday as terrorists invaded St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, killing many worshipers and leaving several other injured. The terrorists were said to have detonated an explosive device at the church, adjacent to the palace of the Olowo of Owo
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, condemning the invasion of the church in his own local government, expressed deep sadness over “an unprovoked attack and killing of innocent people of Owo, worshiping at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street.”
Governor Akeredolu noted that the vile and satanic attack is a calculated assault on the peace-loving people of Owo Kingdom who have enjoyed relative peace over the years.
The governor had declared: “It is a black Sunday in Owo. Our hearts are heavy. Our peace and tranquility have been attacked by the enemies of the people. This is a personal loss, an attack on our dear state.
“I have spoken to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Most Reverend Jude Arogundade, who is presently on his way to Owo. Similarly, I have had to cut short my party’s national assignment in Abuja and visit Owo immediately.
“This is an unexpected development. I am shocked to say the least. Nevertheless, We shall commit every available resource to hunt down these assailants and make them pay. We shall never bow to the machinations of heartless elements in our resolves to rid our state of criminals.
“I commiserate with my people in Owo, particularly families of the those who lost their lives to this ugly and unfortunate attack. I extend my condolences to Olowo of Owo, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye as well as the Catholic Church.”
Akeredolu appealed to the people to remain calm and vigilant. “Do not take laws into your hands,” he said.