Date: March 7, 2026 l Reporter: Mensah
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has claimed that the state has not experienced any terrorist attack since the deadly St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church massacre in Owo in 2022, despite reports of recurring security incidents across the state.
Speaking during a media interaction on security in Ondo, the governor said that what the state has experienced in recent years are isolated kidnapping incidents, not terrorist operations.
According to Aiyedatiwa, the Owo church attack remains the last major terrorist incident in the state. He explained that while criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom still occur in some communities, they should not be classified as terrorist attacks.
“Terrorist operation has not happened after the Owo massacre. We’ve not experienced any terrorist attack,” the governor said while responding to questions about the security situation in the state.
The governor added that security agencies have been actively working to address cases of kidnapping by pursuing the perpetrators and ensuring that victims regain their freedom.
Aiyedatiwa also praised the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, describing it as an effective local security outfit that complements the work of federal security agencies in protecting communities.
His comments come amid concerns from residents and civil society groups about frequent security incidents in parts of Ondo State, including kidnappings and attacks on rural communities.
The governor maintained that while such crimes remain a challenge, they do not amount to organized terrorist operations like the June 2022 Owo church attack, where dozens of worshippers were killed during a Sunday service.
The Owo massacre shocked Nigeria and the international community, as gunmen attacked worshippers with explosives and gunfire inside the church, leaving many people dead and dozens injured.
Authorities in Ondo State say they are continuing efforts to strengthen security and prevent future attacks, while investigations and prosecutions related to the Owo church massacre remain ongoing.