#OwoMassacre: Nigerians Mourn As Gunmen Wreak Havoc On Ondo Church

Reactions have trailed the tragic killing of worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State on Sunday, June 5, 2022.

According to the Ondo Catholic diocese, unknown gunmen stormed the church during Pentecost and killed worshippers.

President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the killing saying that “no matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win.”

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo state who had to cut short his APC Abuja trip condoled with the families of the victims. He urged the people to remain calm and not to take laws into their hands.

He said: “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.”

Former governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, in his reaction called on the government to apprehend and bring the perpetrators of the dastardly act to immediate justice.

Bola Tinubu, national leader of the APC and presidential aspirant condemned the attack and condoled with the governor and people of Ondo state. He said: “I pray healing and comfort for the injured and the bereaved. May Almighty God grant eternal rest to the departed as He gives peace to those they leave behind.”

Former vice president and PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar condemned the senseless killing. In a tweet posted on his page, he said: “I do hope that the state government and relevant security agencies will leave no stone unturned in apprehending the criminals and bringing them to justice. I condole with the body of Catholic faithful in Nigeria.”

One person on Twitter simply identified as Gbenga said his uncle and wife were killed in the church where they had gone to visit his parents.

My family. Never thought a day like this would come. Everyone here, both dead and alive still sent me money 2 months ago”

Another Tweeter said she lost her parents in the incident. She wrote: “To my fellow parishioners who suffered a loss or two in this.

“I hope we can all find the fortitude the bear this loss. We were a community of well-meaning, harmless people. Our parents worked hard for a useless absolutely detestable govt.

“How can Nigeria take so much from us?”

The British High commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, wrote: “Terrible news today from Owo in Ondo state. I condemn those responsible for this horrific crime. I extend my sympathies to all those affected.”

Nigerian singer, Davido also reacted to the incident through his Twitter page.