Ondo

The Catholic Diocese of Ondo and Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, have strongly condemned the demolition of the Owo Memorial Park, which was erected in honour of victims of the June 5, 2022, terrorist attack at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

The memorial site, established by the late governor’s administration, was reportedly demolished on the directive of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa following a request from the Olowo of Owo, who claimed the park’s location conflicted with the town’s cultural traditions.

In a statement signed by Bishop Jude Arogundade, the Catholic Diocese expressed deep disappointment over what it called a “violation of our common respect for human dignity and shared memory.” The statement emphasised that the park was created as a neutral space for reflection and healing, following the massacre in which 41 worshippers lost their lives.

“The site was legitimately acquired and developed by the state government and publicly designated as a Memorial Park. It was commissioned by the government and blessed by the Church,” the bishop stated.

Echoing the Church’s outrage, Mrs. Akeredolu took to social media, accusing the traditional ruler of Owo of hypocrisy and suggesting that the demolition was a calculated move to erase her husband’s legacy.

In a video posted on her official Facebook page, she lamented, “How can the same Olowo installed by my husband now destroy what he stood for? This is not just about the park—it’s about honour, memory, and respect for the dead.”

The demolition, carried out over the weekend, has sparked widespread reactions. While some community members back the Olowo’s stance on cultural sensitivity, others view the move as politically motivated and disrespectful to the victims and the legacy of Governor Akeredolu.

Debate continues to grow over whether tradition should override collective memory and public mourning, especially for an attack that shook not just Owo but the nation at large.