Fresh threat reignites trauma in Owo as community gathers to reinforce security

DDM News

A chilling new threat has unsettled residents of Owo, Ondo State, Nigerian nearly three years after a deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church.

The Fulani terrorists issued a written threat that went viral on social media to the church promising another violent strike “soon” without disclosing a specific date.

This development has reignited fear in the ancient town, which is still haunted by the June 5, 2022 massacre that shook the nation.

On that fateful Pentecost Sunday, heavily armed Fulani gunmen invaded the church during mass, unleashing gunfire and explosives on innocent worshippers.

Forty-one people were killed, and sixty-nine others were seriously injured in one of Nigeria’s bloodiest church attacks in recent history.

The horror of that day is still fresh in the memories of Owo’s people, many of whom are yet to recover from the trauma.

Following the renewed threat, security concerns have surged across the town, prompting urgent action from both the community and traditional leadership.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the community, under the leadership of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, is taking proactive steps to safeguard lives.

The monarch has convened a security summit to tackle the escalating threat of violence and develop robust strategies to ensure long-term safety.

The summit, named “Owo Security Summit”, is scheduled to hold next week, marking a significant community-driven response to worsening insecurity.

The event’s theme is “Securing Owo and its Environs: Strategies for Community Safety and Resilience,” according to organisers.

The summit’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bosun Oladimeji, revealed that the maiden edition would prioritize local vigilance and cooperation.

He noted that the summit aims to encourage collaboration between residents, security agencies, and local stakeholders to reduce crime and boost trust.

Oladimeji explained that one of the major goals is to launch a Security Trust Fund to finance sustainable, long-term security solutions for Owo.

Residents are expected to contribute to this fund to enhance the town’s defense infrastructure and promote a culture of community policing.

He stressed that the forum would help raise awareness on potential threats while fostering quick response channels in times of emergency.

Since the 2022 attack, many locals have lived in anxiety, with religious gatherings now taking place under heavy security presence.

Places of worship across Ondo State have reinforced security measures, fearing a repeat of the 2022 carnage in other locations.

Survivors and families of victims have also renewed calls for justice, as no full conviction or high-profile arrest has been made in connection to the massacre.

Security experts have warned that failure to bring perpetrators to book could embolden criminal groups to continue targeting vulnerable communities.

The Federal Government had promised a thorough investigation in 2022, but many Nigerians believe justice has been slow or non-existent.

The police and Department of State Services (DSS) had initially named Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) as suspects, though evidence remains inconclusive.

Critics say the lack of transparency around the investigation has deepened public mistrust and discouraged cooperation with security forces.

As the threat looms, local security operatives have been deployed to monitor St. Francis Church and other sensitive areas within Owo.

Many residents are demanding more patrols, intelligence sharing, and visible presence of armed forces around markets, schools, and religious centers.

Community-based vigilante groups are also being mobilized to serve as the first line of defense against unknown intruders.

Traditional rulers and local leaders are urging residents to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity immediately.

Religious leaders in the area have begun offering prayers for peace and security, asking for divine protection against further bloodshed.

Owo, a once peaceful community rich in history and tradition, is now grappling with modern security threats that demand a united front.

The summit represents a turning point in the town’s response to organized violence and its determination to protect its heritage and people.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) will continue to monitor developments from Owo as preparations for the security summit intensify in the coming days.

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