A Catholic priest gave an emotional and harrowing testimony before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, recounting the devastating moments when terrorists launched a deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.
The cleric, who led the service on the day of the massacre, told the court that the congregation “saw hell” as heavily armed attackers stormed the church during Mass and opened fire indiscriminately. He said the gunmen detonated explosive devices and shot at worshippers attempting to flee, leaving the sanctuary covered in bodies within minutes.
According to his testimony, over 40 church members were killed, while many others sustained life-threatening injuries. He described seeing families wiped out, children caught in the chaos, and elderly members who could not escape the assault.
The priest also recounted how he narrowly survived the attack, explaining that parishioners shielded him as the terrorists moved through the church.
He told the court that the traumatic images of that day still haunt him, and that the parish is struggling to rebuild emotionally and spiritually.
Security operatives later arrested several suspects believed to be linked to the attack, who are now facing terrorism-related charges.
The case continues as witnesses provide further testimony in the ongoing trial.
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