Two survivors of the devastating terrorist attack on St. Francis’ Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, have bravely testified in a Federal High Court in Abuja, detailing the harrowing events of June 5, 2022. One witness, identified only as “SSC” for security reasons, recounted the moment her left leg was blown off by a dynamite blast during the service. The terrifying ordeal began with heavy gunfire, followed by the detonation of explosives by assailants believed to be members of the Al Shabab terrorist sect, resulting in the tragic deaths of 40 church members. The witness described the initial confusion and terror as gunshots rang out, leading her to seek refuge near the altar. It was there, in a moment of unimaginable horror, that a gunman placed a dynamite beside her head, and as she shifted, her leg was caught in the blast. The sheer brutality of the attack left her severely injured, necessitating multiple surgeries and skin grafts to address the extensive damage. This pivotal testimony sheds light on the direct impact of the explosives used in the attack. The attack involved multiple explosions and intense gunfire, leaving many survivors with life-altering injuries and profound trauma. The elderly witness, referred to as “SSB,” described the chaos as gunshots erupted inside the church and assailants entered, opening fire on congregants. He recounted hearing four explosive sounds, the last of which sent him to the ground in fear. After the attackers left, he managed to escape through a window, witnessing the grim aftermath of dead bodies scattered around the church premises. The physical and emotional scars left by this act of terror are immeasurable, with survivors like SSC and SSB bearing witness to the immense suffering inflicted. The court proceedings aim to bring justice to the victims and hold the alleged perpetrators accountable for their heinous crimes. The testimonies provided crucial evidence regarding the sequence of events and the devastating impact of the explosives. Information about the number of injured and the extent of the damage to the church building offers a stark picture of the violence. The prosecution presented a statement made by witness SSC to the Department of State Services, which was admitted as evidence. This statement provided further details about the injuries sustained and the ongoing medical treatment. The cross-examination of the witnesses by the defense counsel sought to probe the accuracy and completeness of their accounts. The court heard that SSC’s two-year-old cousin was also tragically killed in the attack, shot in the head. Witness SSB identified one of the defendants in court as one of the first individuals to enter the church armed with a gun. He also described a third attacker who appeared to be assessing the scene before signaling for the group to leave. The witness stated that more than 40 people lost their lives in the attack, with approximately 100 others injured. The severity of the injuries was evident, as many required amputations. The church building itself sustained significant damage from the explosives and gunfire. The testimonies are crucial in establishing the facts of the Owo church attack and the roles of the accused. The ongoing trial seeks to provide closure for the victims and their families. The court admitted statements made by witnesses to the DSS as part of the evidence presented. The defense counsel questioned the witnesses about their recollection of the events and their ability to identify the perpetrators. The witness confirmed that his goddaughter was among those who died as a result of the attack. The prosecution’s case relies heavily on the eyewitness accounts to reconstruct the events of that tragic day. The testimonies highlight the extreme violence and the devastating consequences for the community. The court’s role is to meticulously examine the evidence and deliver a just verdict. The ongoing trial is a significant step towards accountability for the Owo church attack. The courage of the survivors in sharing their experiences is commendable. The details provided by the witnesses paint a vivid and disturbing picture of the attack. The legal process aims to ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families. The court continues to hear evidence from further witnesses.
