Owo Church Attack: Witness Recounts Escape by Hiding in
Restroom
On June 5, 2022, tragedy struck at **St. Francis Catholic
Church in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria**, when suspected Al-Shabab terrorists
carried out a violent attack. The assault involved **three bomb explosions and
sporadic gunfire**, leading to the deaths of more than 40 worshippers and
leaving many others injured. Amid the chaos, one witness—a clergyman
coordinating Mass that day—shared a harrowing account of how he managed to
protect children by leading them into a restroom for safety.
According to testimony presented in court, the attack began
just as the service was ending.
- **Gunshots erupted** within the church compound, causing
panic and confusion.
- The witness described hearing **three loud explosions**,
with the third so powerful it felt “like the ground caved in”.
- Worshippers scrambled for safety as the attackers
unleashed terror inside the sanctuary.
The clergyman, identified under the pseudonym “SSA” for
security reasons, recounted his courageous actions:
- He rushed to the **children’s hall** during the
chaos.
- He gathered the children and moved them into a
**restroom**, shielding them from gunfire.
- While sheltering, he heard the explosions nearby, but the
restroom provided temporary safety until another worshipper informed him the
attackers had fled.
- The attack resulted in **over 40 deaths** and numerous
injuries, with victims rushed to hospitals.
- Five suspects—Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris,
Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar—are currently on
trial for terrorism charges.
- The Federal High Court in Abuja has denied bail, citing
the severity of the charges and risks of witness intimidation.
Broader Implications
The Owo church attack underscores the **ongoing threat of
terrorism in Nigeria** and the importance of community resilience. It also
raises critical questions about:
Security in places of worship**
Preparedness for emergencies**
Support for survivors and witnesses**
The witness’s testimony offers a chilling yet inspiring perspective on the Owo church attack. His decision to hide children in a restroom during the assault not only saved lives but also serves as a reminder of the courage ordinary people can show in extraordinary circumstances. As the trial continues, the world watches for justice while communities reflect on the need for stronger protections against such tragedies.
