The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted a significant request from the Department of State Services (DSS) to protect the identities of witnesses in the high-profile trial of five individuals accused of involvement in the devastating attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, on June 5, 2022.
The court ruling, handed down on Tuesday, followed an application by DSS lawyer, Calistus Eze, who sought to shield the witnesses due to ongoing threats against them. Justice Emeka Nwite granted the application after it was unopposed by the defence counsel representing the accused.
The accused, Idris Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris (20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), Abdulhaleem Idris (25), and Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47), are facing multiple charges, including terrorism and murder, in connection with the deadly attack that killed over 40 worshippers and injured more than 100 others. The suspects allegedly detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and fired AK-47 rifles during the assault, leaving a trail of destruction at the church.
The charge, filed by the Federal Government on July 23, 2025, details a nine-count indictment against the defendants. According to the prosecution, the accused were members of the Al-Shabab terror group, which they allegedly joined in 2021. The suspects are accused of carrying out their operations in Kogi State, as part of a wider plan to advance the group’s terrorist activities.
The court has heard that the attack was carried out with the intent to further the group’s religious ideology. In addition to the fatalities, the explosion and gunfire caused severe bodily harm to several worshippers. Notable among the injured were Onileke Ayodele, John Blessing, Nselu Esther, and Ogungbade Peter, who sustained life-threatening injuries.
The suspects have been charged under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which carries heavy penalties for acts of terrorism, including causing death and grievous bodily harm. The charges also highlight the use of firearms and explosives in furtherance of a terrorist agenda.
This court ruling comes at a crucial time as Nigeria continues to grapple with the rising menace of terrorism and violent extremism. The Federal Government’s decision to take legal action against the accused is part of its broader strategy to dismantle terrorist networks operating across the country. The trial has drawn national attention, particularly in Ondo State, where the Owo church attack remains a painful memory for many.
The trial is ongoing, with the prosecution expected to present further evidence to support its case. Meanwhile, the DSS is tasked with ensuring the safety of witnesses who may provide vital information in securing convictions against the suspects.
