By PJ Usanga
The Catholic Diocese of Ondo has issued a circular warning of a potential attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, the same church that was targeted in a deadly terrorist attack on June 5, 2022, during Pentecost Sunday Mass. Although no official confirmation has been received, the diocese is taking the threat seriously and urging all parishes, institutions, and citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary security measures.
“We must do everything within our capacity to fortify our environments and safeguard the lives of our faithful and fellow citizens,” said the Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, . “Security is a shared responsibility, and we must not allow fear or negligence to endanger lives.”
The diocese has called on the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and relevant security agencies to investigate the matter and provide necessary support to ensure the safety of places of worship. “Let us continue to trust in God’s protection, remain steadfast in faith and united in hope, even as we do our part to protect one another,” Bishop Arogundade urged.
The diocese is particularly concerned about the upcoming World Communications Sunday celebration on June 1, 2025, which involves large gatherings and may be vulnerable to attack. “Precautionary measures must be in place in every Church and facility across the Diocese,” the bishop emphasized.
The faithful are advised to report any suspicious activity to the authorities and to remain alert and vigilant in the face of any potential threat.
Leave feedback about this