The Federal High Court in Abuja has denied bail to five alleged Al-Shabab terrorists accused of masterminding the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which resulted in the deaths of over 40 worshippers. Justice Emeka Nwite dismissed the bail application, citing the gravity of the terrorism charges and the risk of witness intimidation ¹.
Key Reasons for Denying Bail
- *Gravity of Charges*: The court held that the terrorism charges against the suspects were capital in nature, making them ineligible for bail.
- *Risk of Witness Intimidation*: The judge believed that releasing the suspects could compromise the trial, as they might intimidate witnesses or influence the outcome.
- *Lack of Credible Sureties*: The court faulted the defendants' sureties, stating that they were not credible enough to stand for the suspects pending trial.
- *Strong Evidence*: The Department of State Services (DSS) presented strong evidence against the suspects, which the court deemed convincing ¹ ².
Trial Details
- *Commencement of Trial*: The trial is set to begin on October 19, 2025, with accelerated proceedings.
- *Charges*: The suspects face nine counts bordering on terrorism, including membership in Al-Shabab, planning attacks, and possessing explosives ³.
Accused Persons
- *Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza*
- *Al Qasim Idris*
- *Jamiu Abdulmalik*
- *Abdulhaleem Idris*
- *Momoh Otuho Abubakar*
The court's decision marks a significant step towards accountability for the devastating attack, which left many dead and injured. The DSS had urged the court to deny bail, citing the suspects' alleged ties to foreign terrorist fighters linked to Al-Shabab and the potential risk of them absconding ⁴.
