Four men convicted over a deadly attack on a Catholic church in Nigeria have been sentenced to death following their involvement in one of the country's most devastating acts of terrorism in recent years.
The men were found guilty of carrying out the assault on St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, during a Pentecost Sunday service on 5 June 2022. Worshippers had gathered for Mass when armed attackers opened fire and detonated explosives, leaving more than 40 people dead and many others injured.
Among those killed were children, while around 100 people suffered injuries during the attack. The tragedy shocked Nigeria and drew condemnation from Christian leaders around the world.
At the time, the late Pope Francis expressed sorrow over the loss of life and offered prayers for the victims and their families, describing the attack as a painful act of violence carried out during a time of worship and celebration.
One of the survivors, Margaret Attah, sustained life-changing injuries, losing both legs and an eye. In recognition of her courage and Christian witness following the attack, she later received Aid to the Church in Need's inaugural #RedWednesday Courage to be Christian Award.
In addition to receiving death sentences, the four convicted men were also handed life sentences linked to their alleged association with the extremist group al-Shabaab, as well as 20-year prison terms for conspiracy offences. Under Nigerian law, the death penalty requires presidential approval before it can be carried out.
Court documents reportedly revealed that the group had intended to target additional locations, including a public school. A fifth defendant was cleared of all charges after the court determined that there was insufficient evidence to support a conviction.
The case has been closely followed by the Catholic community in the Diocese of Ondo, where the attack took place. Bishop Jude Arogundade joined worshippers at a special memorial Mass marking the anniversary of the tragedy.
Speaking ahead of the service, the bishop welcomed the conclusion of the legal proceedings, saying the outcome may help families and survivors begin a process of healing.
He noted, however, that many victims continue to live with deep emotional and physical wounds. Several survivors are still receiving medical treatment, while others continue to struggle with trauma and uncertainty about the future.
Bishop Arogundade also emphasised that although the Catholic Church opposes the use of the death penalty, it supports efforts to ensure justice and accountability for serious crimes. He called on authorities to continue investigating the attack and to bring any remaining perpetrators to justice.
The church attack remains a painful reminder of the security challenges facing parts of Nigeria, where Christian communities have often been affected by extremist violence and insecurity.
