Ondo State Governor , Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged Christians to remain undaunted by the vicissitudes of life rather to earnestly hold on to their hope of resurrection in Jesus Christ.

Addressing the congregation of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo during a Commemorative Mass to mark two years of the killing of some worshippers by suspected terrorists during service in Year 2022, Governor Aiyedatiwa said notwithstanding the impact of the dastardly incident, the church should to stay strong and united for Christ Jesus.

The State Governor represented by his Deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, mni, assured the Church that his administration will continue to support the surviving victims in every means possible.

“We have hope in Christ, we have hope of resurrection especially for those who died in Christ. The episode that happened in Owo two years ago was not expected at all but it happened. Today, we are rejoicing; but why are we rejoicing? Because we have hope”

“We are rejoicing for those who are alive after the ugly incident and also to comfort the families that lost their loved ones that God Almighty will heal the wounds in Jesus” name”, he said.

Gov Aiyedatiwa who said the state will always remember the tragedy that befell Owo Kingdom on that fateful day, assured that families of the departed will equally not be made to bear the pains of their losses alone.

“Let me encourage you as the Bible says that in all things we should give thanks. It’s not how long we stay here on earth, it’s how well and what will people say of us when we answer the call of God. I want to encourage us to get more closer to God”, he said.

On 5 June 2022, gunmen opened fire and detonated explosives inside St Francis Catholic Church in Owo during Mass, killing 41 people and injuring more than 70.