Terror attack: Akeredolu weeps at funeral mass for slain victims

Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, on Friday, wept at the funeral mass for the victims of the June 5 terror attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church in the Owo area of the state.

Akeredolu, who attended the funeral mass held at Mydas Resort and Hotel, Owo, with his wife, Betty, burst into tears during his speech at the event.

Speaking, the governor said the government failed to protect the victims of the terror attack, stressing that the assailants are evil.

He, however, assured that the attackers will not triumph forever.

“We have failed to defend these people. Not because we have not tried but because these forces on the other side are evil and they have support. They will not triumph over us forever,” Akeredolu said.

The governor further stated that something must be done in the country, adding that the security architecture of the nation needs rejigging.

“When I see the sea of heads that are here, it speaks volumes. What has happened to us in Owo, Ondo State is indescribable.

“A lot of words are used to qualify it; dastardly, horrendous. But I still believe there are words to use to describe it but I’m still short of those words.

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“We have just 22 (deceased) in this hall. A few of them have been buried because the relatives couldn’t wait till today. But as at the last count, these animals came to the church and murdered 40 people,” Governor Akeredolu said.

Also speaking at the event, the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Dr. Jude Arogundade, said Akeredolu has not failed in protecting his people.

“You didn’t fail. You are a strong soldier. Your determination to protect those who voted you into power is unquestionable. This was done by cowards. You have tried your best,” Bishop Arogundade said.

The Bishop, who said he could not understand why the people of the country need to beg for state police despite the endless attacks and killings, thanked Governor Akeredolu for accepting to designate a memorial park in honour of the victims.

He stressed that those who created the situation that made the incident happen have blood on their hands.

The Mydas Resort and Hotel was crowded as families of the victims, people of Owo and other sympathisers thronged the venue of the funeral mass.

Members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. David Bamidele Oleyelogun, also attended the service.

Members of the state executive council, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, were also present at the funeral mass.

Other dignitaries at the event were former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; APC chieftain, Chief Olusola Oke, among others.

The Star