A Nigerian court has postponed the trial of five men accused of participating in the deadly attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church in Ondo State, where at least 40 worshippers were killed on June 5, 2022. The decision came on what was intended to be the first day of proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, a move that has drawn attention both locally and internationally.
The attack, which occurred during a Sunday service, was particularly shocking given the relative safety of Nigeria’s southwestern region compared to the northeast, where jihadist violence has been more prevalent. Gunmen infiltrated the church, opening fire inside while others shot from outside, leading to numerous casualties and injuries among attendees.
During the court session, Justice Emeka Nwite granted a request to delay the trial after prosecutors highlighted the attorney general’s intention to appoint a new lead counsel for the case. Additionally, concerns regarding witness protection were raised by the prosecution, while defense attorney A.A. Muhammad claimed he had been unable to meet with his clients since their arrest over three years ago. “I’ve not been able to meet my clients… in the entire three years,” he stated, emphasizing the challenges faced by the defense team.
The court did not set a new date for the trial. Following the arraignment, Muhammad expressed uncertainty about the location and status of his clients, who had been held by state intelligence authorities. This situation raises questions about the defendants’ access to legal representation and the overall fairness of the proceedings.
Authorities initially suspected the involvement of the Islamic State West Africa Province in the massacre, a group known for its insurgent activities in Nigeria’s northeast. The five defendants are charged under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism law for conspiring to commit a terrorist act that resulted in significant loss of life and injuries.
Prosecutors argued against bail for the defendants, citing their alleged links to foreign terrorist fighters and the potential flight risk they pose. They indicated plans to call six witnesses to testify, stressing the importance of ensuring their safety during the trial process.
Inside the courtroom, the five men appeared without handcuffs and were permitted to interact with supporters before being escorted out by armed security personnel. The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the broader issues of security, justice, and the impact of terrorism on communities across Nigeria.
