Trial of Owo Church Attack Suspects Continues in Abuja

Five defendants, including Idri Omeiza, are currently on trial in the Federal High Court in Abuja for their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which left 41 worshippers dead and 140 injured.

Omeiza testified that he was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) in the early hours of August 1, 2022, during an operation at his residence. He recounted that he and his brother, Jamiu, were awakened by noise at 2:26 AM, witnessing armed individuals forcing their way into their home.

Following his arrest, Omeiza was taken to the DSS facility in Lokoja, Kogi State, where he provided personal information and a voluntary statement. The DSS later confronted him regarding allegations related to the church attack, which they linked to a terrorist organization.

The trial, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, has been adjourned until March 6 for further proceedings.