A Nigerian court has sentenced four individuals to death by hanging for their involvement in the Owo church massacre that shocked the nation in June 2022.

The attack, which took place at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, left dozens of worshippers dead and many others injured. It was one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Nigeria’s recent history, sparking outrage and calls for stronger security measures.

Delivering judgment, the court found the four men guilty of terrorism, murder, and conspiracy related to the attack. The ruling marks a significant step in Nigeria’s judicial response to terrorism, as the case had drawn national and international attention.

Authorities had earlier linked the attack to extremist elements operating in the country, though investigations into broader networks remain ongoing.