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Owo Church Attack: The Ondo State Government affirms its commitment to provide continuous support to

The Ondo State Government has made a firm commitment to provide unwavering support to the families of the victims affected by the tragic June 5, 2022, gunmen attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo. The attack resulted in the unfortunate loss of 41 lives and numerous injuries, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Furthermore, a memorial park has been established as a tribute to the victims who lost their lives on the premises of the church. Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Deputy Governor of the state, along with other members of the state executive council, attended a memorial mass at the church in Owo on Saturday. He expressed that the incident marked a sorrowful Sunday for the people of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that the memorial mass evoked a range of emotions, as individuals continued to cherish the memories of their friends and loved ones who tragically lost their lives during the attack.

He expressed gratitude to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu for his dedicated efforts in supporting the victims and survivors. The deputy governor disclosed that each survivor had received a total of N500,000 in two installments, while emphasizing that the state government had constructed a memorial park to honor the lives lost during the tragic incident.

Aiyedatiwa further noted that the state government had taken care of all the medical bills incurred by the injured individuals. He expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the victims in various ways, acknowledging their generous support.

Reflecting on the event, he stated that it was a somber Sunday for the people of Ondo State, as the unfortunate incident occurred while they were engaged in the sacred act of worship. He extended condolences to those who had lost their loved ones, noting that they are now saints in the eyes of the Lord. He emphasized the importance of drawing closer to God and fulfilling His purpose in life.

"The Ondo Government has demonstrated tremendous support to the families who have tragically lost their loved ones since this incident occurred. We express our gratitude to the governor for his remarkable efforts in response to this disaster," he stated.

Aiyedatiwa affirmed that the state government would remain committed to protecting and supporting all citizens and residents, regardless of their tribe or religion, as the value of human life and dignity was held in high regard.

During his sermon, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, emphasized that the gathering was not intended to fuel anger but rather to demonstrate how the victims have found healing through Christ.

Arogundade urged the government to fulfill its responsibilities by holding the perpetrators of this heinous act accountable and seeking internal solutions for Nigeria's emancipation.

The bishop added that no evil intentions could separate the people from the love of Christ, and he acknowledged that the Ondo State Government had done what any responsible government would do for victims of any attack.

He urged the Federal Government to unveil the perpetrators of the attack and ensure that they face justice, providing closure and serving the cause of justice.

Mrs. Jumoke Veronica, who tragically lost her mother in the attack, expressed the profound impact the incident had on her life, emphasizing that life has never been the same since that fateful day.



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