Suspected gunmen have once again issued threats against Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, stirring fresh fear in the ancient town just three years after a horrific attack claimed the lives of worshippers.
The community is gripped by anxiety following this alarming development.
On June 5, 2022, unknown assailants attacked the church during morning Mass, killing and injuring worshippers of all ages.
In response, the traditional ruler of Owo, the Olowo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, has called for a security summit to tackle the escalating insecurity and ease rising tensions in the town.
Owo Security Summit Committee’s Publicity Secretary, Olatunbosun Oladimeji, confirmed to Vanguard in Akure that the first-ever Owo Security Summit, themed “Securing Owo and its Environ: Strategies for Community Safety and Resilience,” is scheduled for Monday, May 26.
He explained that the summit aims “to raise awareness about community security, foster cooperation between residents and law enforcement, reduce crime, and propose sustainable security initiatives.”
“A key objective is to establish a Security Trust Fund to support long-term efforts,” Oladimeji added.
He highlighted that “recent incidents, including the bandits’ renewed threat and several kidnappings, have significantly affected the socio-economic life of the people, making proactive security measures imperative.”
Notable attendees expected at the summit include Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami.
Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi will chair the event, with Hon. Tope Omolayo, Owo LG Chairman, serving as Chief Host.
The summit committee is chaired by Pastor Olugbenga Olumolawa, and Prof. Taiwo Adenegan will anchor the event.
He further noted that “all security agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders have been invited to develop a unified response to the looming threat.”
