Federal Government Charges Five Al-Shabab Suspects in Connection with June 2022 Owo Church Attack
The Federal Government on Monday arraigned five men before a Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing them of orchestrating the deadly June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, where over 40 worshippers were killed.
The accused Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar are charged with terrorism-related offenses filed by the Department of State Services (DSS). They are alleged members of the Al-Shabab terrorist group operating a cell in Kogi State.
The nine-count charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025, accuses the defendants of planning and executing the church attack to further their religious ideology. Over 100 individuals were reportedly injured during the assault.
When the charges were read, all five pleaded not guilty.
Prosecuting counsel, Calistus Eze, requested the court to remand the suspects in DSS custody pending trial. Defense lawyer Abdullahi Muhammad asked for permission to allow the defendants’ families and lawyers access, noting they have been detained since 2022 without such visits.
Justice Emeka Nwite granted both requests, ordering that the suspects remain in DSS custody but be granted access to family and legal representatives. The trial is scheduled to commence on August 19.
Among the charges are:
- Membership of the Al-Shabab terrorist group based in Kogi State.
- Planning meetings held in Kogi and Ondo States in preparation for the June 5 attack.
- Using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and AK-47 rifles to attack worshippers, causing numerous deaths and injuries.
- Detonation of explosives with intent to cause death and grievous bodily harm.
The arraignment marks a critical step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice and restore security in affected communities.
