SUNTV GLOBAL CHANNEL — Abuja
A dramatic courtroom testimony has revealed chilling details about how suspected terrorists allegedly planned, financed, and executed the deadly 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.
A protected operative of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), identified only as SSI, told the Federal High Court in Abuja that the attackers were carefully mobilised, paid, and equipped with sophisticated weapons before carrying out the massacre.
The witness, who serves as Deputy Director of Counter-Terrorism Investigation at the DSS, appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite as the ninth prosecution witness in the ongoing trial.
How The Attack Was Planned
According to the DSS operative, intelligence investigations showed that the suspects were members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), operating a terror cell across parts of Kogi and Ondo states.
He testified that:
- A key figure identified as “Odoba” convened a meeting on May 30, 2022, where the attack was approved.
- The instruction was explicit: attack the church during Sunday service and assassinate the priest.
- Weapons supplied included AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The attackers reportedly conducted rehearsals the night before the assault and received logistical support from collaborators who monitored the church ahead of the attack.
The Day Of The Massacre
The court heard that on June 5, 2022, the suspects travelled in a hired vehicle with weapons concealed in sacks before positioning themselves around the church.
Moments before the assault:
- One suspect allegedly shot dead a hawker who became suspicious of their movements.
- The attackers hijacked a vehicle and drove into the church premises.
- They then opened fire on worshippers while detonating multiple explosives.
The DSS told the court that at least 40 people, including women and children, were killed, while dozens more sustained serious injuries.
Funding Trail Exposed
Investigators also traced financial support for the operation to one of the defendants, who operated multiple POS outlets.
The witness revealed that:
- The suspect received ₦800,000 twice shortly before the attack.
- The funds were distributed to members of the terror network.
- Communication records showed frequent contact among the accused during the planning stage.
Trial Continues
Medical reports, autopsy findings, and photographic evidence from the crime scene were admitted in court without objection.
Justice Nwite has adjourned proceedings for further hearing and cross-examination of the DSS witness.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor and provide updates on this high-profile terrorism trial.
