News Investigators/ Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Saturday praised the Federal Government and the Department of State Services (DSS) for prosecuting the suspects of Owo Catholic Church massacre.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 40 worshippers were killed on June 5, 2022 when gunmen attacked the Sunday service of St Francis Catholic Church in Owo Local Government Area of the state.
Mr Aiyedatiwa, at the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Rev. Jude Arogundade in Akure, said security of residents was his top priority.
The governor revealed that security agencies, through a collaboration between the Federal and state governments, had arrested suspects linked to the attack.
Mr Aiyedatiwa, who said the suspects were now being prosecuted by DSS, vowed that his administration would not relent in the pursuit of justice for victims of Owo massacre.
“Dozens of the survivors still carry the scars of the attack and we pray that the memories of the victims be blessed forever.
“As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror’s might and other forms of criminalities.
“In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts, and ensure a safer Sunshine State,” he said.
The governor also described Arogundade as a beacon of hope, an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity.
He said his pastoral leadership had touched countless lives in Ondo State and beyond.
Mr Aiyedatiwa praised the Catholic church for its significant contributions to education, healthcare, and social development in the state.
The governor also said his administration continued to invest heavily in security infrastructure.
“We recently purchased 75 Hilux vehicles equipped with modern security gadgets to strengthen operations of security agencies in the state.
“The combined effect of this collaboration is the wide acknowledgement of Ondo State as one of the most secured and safest in Nigeria.
“While our people carry on their daily businesses with a sense of safety, it has also translated to massive investors coming to do business in Ondo State,” he said.
In his remarks, Arogundade expressed appreciation to the people and government for the return of missionary schools to the church.
He assured that the institutions would remain committed to providing quality education anchored on sound moral values to groom future leaders.
The bishop also reflected on his pastoral journey, urging the newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in their devotion to God and service to humanity.
Arogundade thanked the governor for personally gracing the event, and promised that the church would continue to offer prayers and support for his administration.
NAN reports that Aiyedatiwa also inaugurated a new multipurpose hall of the church, joining the priests and dignitaries on a tour of the facilities in the building.
NAN