A married couple on Wednesday narrated their ordeal before the Federal High Court in Abuja during the trial of five men accused of involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack on St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State.
Testifying as prosecution witnesses in the case brought by the Department of State Services, the husband and wife described the confusion that followed when gunmen invaded the church during a service.
The husband, identified as SSE, told the court that he attended the service with his mother, wife and three children. He said moments after the final blessing, loud sounds erupted around the church, forcing worshippers to seek cover.
According to him, movement within the church became difficult as people attempted to find safety. After the attackers eventually left, he searched for members of his family, finding his mother and daughters outside, while his wife and son were unaccounted for.
SSE said he later discovered that his wife had sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a medical facility, where doctors were forced to carry out emergency procedures to save her life.
The wife, identified as SSD, a nurse, confirmed the account, telling the court that she sought refuge near the altar during the attack. She said she later realised she had sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital, where she spent several months receiving treatment.
She told the court that she now lives with permanent disabilities as a result of the incident and uses a wheelchair.
Both witnesses said they could not clearly identify the attackers during the chaos. Under cross examination, they confirmed that firearms and explosive devices were used during the assault.
Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned further hearing in the matter to February 10 and 11.
