HURIWA: Owo verdict warns terrorists

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Bu Chioma Obinna

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has described the death sentence handed to four terrorists convicted over the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, as a strong warning to terrorists, kidnappers and violent criminals across the country.

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HURIWA said the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja represents a major victory for justice and signals that perpetrators of mass killings will no longer escape punishment.

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The group’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, praised Justice Emeka Nwite for what he described as a courageous and evidence-based ruling.

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“The verdict is a landmark victory for justice, a triumph for the rule of law, and a strong message that those who engage in terrorism and mass murder will ultimately face the full weight of the law,” Onwubiko said.

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HURIWA said the judgment had restored public confidence in the justice system and provided some closure for families of victims killed in the June 2022 church attack.

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The group also commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its role in the intelligence-led investigation that led to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of the offenders.

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It said the outcome demonstrated the importance of strengthening security institutions and ensuring competent leadership in the fight against terrorism.

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HURIWA urged security agencies to intensify efforts against kidnapping syndicates and violent criminal networks operating across the country.

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It further called on the judiciary to impose strict penalties on convicted terrorists and kidnappers, arguing that rising insecurity requires stronger deterrent measures.

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The organisation also appealed for speedy determination of any appeals arising from the judgment to ensure timely justice.

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However, HURIWA’s statement also attracted attention for calling for swift enforcement of the death sentence, insisting that delays in execution could weaken the deterrent effect of the ruling.

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The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sustain support for security agencies and the judiciary in the ongoing fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

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It added that the Owo judgment should serve as a clear message that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for terrorists or mass murderers.

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