Suspected gunmen have reportedly issued a fresh threat to Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, nearly three years after a deadly attack at the same church claimed the lives of many worshippers.
The new warning has caused fear to spread through the town, as residents remember the June 5, 2022 tragedy, when armed men stormed the church during a morning Mass and killed several people, leaving many others injured.
The memory of that attack still haunts the community, and the recent development has raised concerns about safety.
In response to the new threat and the growing fear, the traditional ruler of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, has called for a security summit.
The event is meant to bring together stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the rising insecurity in the area.
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It is also expected to ease the tension that has gripped the town.
According to the organisers, the event will take place on Monday, May 26, and will focus on how to keep the town and surrounding communities safe.
The plan includes promoting better cooperation between residents and security agencies, and creating long-term strategies to reduce crime.
A major part of the summit’s agenda is the creation of a Security Trust Fund.
This fund is expected to support ongoing efforts to protect lives and property in Owo and nearby communities.
The organisers said recent threats from bandits and a rise in kidnapping cases have badly affected daily life and business in the town.
The summit will be attended by several important figures, including Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami.
Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi will lead the session as chairman, while Hon. Tope Omolayo, chairman of Owo Local Government, will serve as chief host.
The committee chairman is Pastor Olugbenga Olumolawa, and Prof. Taiwo Adenegan will anchor the event.
All major security agencies, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders have been invited to take part in the meeting and find a joint way forward to protect the town from future attacks.
