Catholic Diocese of Ondo has officially reacted to the demolition of Owo memorial park by the Ondo State government on the request of the Olowo of Owo.
The church said the demolition has reopened the pain of a massacre in Owo.
Bellow is the full text of the press statement by the Catholic church;
June 25, 2025
Circular to the Public:
OFFICIAL PUBLIC STATEMENT BY THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF ONDO ON THE DEMOLITION OF THE STATE GOVERNMENT’S MEMORIAL PARK IN OWO
The Catholic Diocese of Ondo wishes to sincerely thank the faithful, the general public, and all well-meaning individuals and organizations for their solidarity and deep concem following the recent demolition of the State Government’s Memorial Park in Owo, built in honour and memory of our innocent brothers and sisters who were killed on June 5, 2022 during the massacre at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo.
We acknowledge and deeply appreciate the flood of questions and expressions of worry received both within and beyond the State. The sense of belonging and mutual respect shown towards the victims and their families is a testament to the strength of our communal bond..
In response, and for the sake of clarity, accountability, and peace, we state the following:
- Our Efforts at Dialogue
Immediately we heard of the demolition, the Diocese wrote a letter to His Excellency, the Governor of Ondo State, seeking an official audience to understand the reasons behind the demolition of the Memorial Park and to seek clarification about its future. As of this statement, over 72 hours have passed, and no reply has been received from the Governor’s office.
- The Position of the Diocese
There is no doubt that the demolition is a violation of our common respect for the dignity of life and the memory we share of our 41 brothers and sisters who were unjustly killed. The Catholic Diocese of Ondo unequivocally condemns and finds unacceptable the sudden and unannounced demolition of the Memorial Park in Owo. This site, established by the State Government, served as a neutral and communal space for remembrance, reflection, and communal healing after the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack. Its demolition seems to have renew the pain of everyone who was affected by the attack, and justifiably so,
We recall that when protests arose last year regarding the site, the Diocese issued a statement making it clear that the space was a Memorial Park and NOT a graveyard. In the letter, the misunderstanding by those who thought it was a burial ground, especially due to its proximity to the Palace, was addressed openly, and an appeal was made for understanding and mutual respect.
- Legitimacy of the Memorial Park
The site was legitimately acquired and developed by the State Government and publicly designated as a Memorial Park for honouring the victims. It was commissioned and blessed by the state government and the Church respectively. The faithful and the general public were shocked and deeply saddened that the State Government, in collaboration with the Olowo, chose to demolish the site without any prior notice, consultation, or official dialogue with the Church.
- The Letter to the Governor and Its Agenda
The Catholic Diocese of Ondo has sought an official audience with His Excellency, the Governor of Onde, with the following agenda in mind:
- An official explanation for the sudden change of mind by the government to demolish the Memorial Park in Owo..
- Clarification as to whether the site is being vacated for relocation, redevelopment, or permanent removal.
- Information about any future State Government plans for a Memorial site in honour of the victims of the June 5, 2022 massacre.
- The Importance of Maintaining Proper Channels
The Diocese wishes to assure the faithful and the public that we do not take their concern for granted. Our silent approach is rooted in respect for due process, dialogue, and constructive engagement, so as to prevent the spread of misinformation and to maintain peace, mutual respect, and communal understanding within the State.
Conclusion
The Catholic Diocese of Ondo remains committed to honouring the memories of the departed. foster communal healing, and work with authorities and stakeholders to maintain peace and mutual respect within the State. We trust that through open dialogue and respect for due process, this matter will be resolved in a manner that upholds the dignity of the victims and the collective heritage of our people.
Thank you, and may God guide and unite us all.
Signed;
Most Rev. Dr. Jude Arogundade Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Nigeria
Date: June 25, 2025
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