The Catholic Church of Ondo State, South-Western Nigeria has confirmed that security operatives have been deployed to Owo so as to “relatively” calm nerves in the ancient town, calling for divine intervention.
The Director, Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Rev. Fr. Augustine Ikwu made the confirmation in a statement he signed Sunday.
The statement followed the massacre of some worshippers at the St. Francis Catholic church, Owo by suspected gunmen early hours of Sunday.
Father Ikwu confirmed the security deployment, saying: “…for now, security agencies have been deployed to the community to relatively handle the situation”.
Still, he alerted: “at this point in the history of our dear country Nigeria, we need God’s ultimate intervention to restore peace and tranquillity.
He also confirmed that the Priests and Bishop in the parish are-safe and non was kidnapped as the social media has it.
“Nonetheless, let us continue to pray for them and the good people of Owo and the state at large.
“We tum to God to console the families of those whose lives were lost to this distressing incident, and we pray for the departed souls to rest in peace. Amen” the Diocese spokesperson prayed.
The Bishop appealed to the Catholic faithful to remain calm, be law abiding, pray for peace and normalcy to return to the community, state and country.
No fewer than 50 worshippers were reportedly killed in the early hours bloodbath.