Irate youths on Thursday protested at the palace of Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoy, in Ondo State, Southwest Nigeria.
The reason for the protest remains unclear but it is believed it is connected to the massacre that occurred at St. Francis Catholic Church when unknown assailants invaded the church, killing several worshippers and injuring many.
According to reports, the community’s youths flocked out in large numbers in response to the alleged capture of criminals responsible for the killing.
Sources say the enraged youths were seen moving around the palace of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, lamenting the killing and demanding the release of the alleged perpetrators of the killing for jungle justice due to concerns about the delay of justice.
On Thursday, Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu disclosed that the death toll of those killed during the massacre has skyrocketed to 40 from an initial 22.
He revealed that a mass burial would be conducted for the deceased and a park would be created where the victims would be immortalized.
It should be recalled that two days ago, women in Owo town performed a ‘ritual’ to help security operatives nab the assailants. Reports say the suspects have been arrested and evacuated to Akure.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s National Security Council, on Thursday, revealed that the Islamic State, West African Province, ISWAP, masterminded the deadly attack.
The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, disclosed this to State House correspondents, shortly after the over three-hour council meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja.
Aregbesola, who spoke in the company of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, said security agencies are closing in on the perpetrators through their traces.