Worshipers revisit painful memories as the Owo church reopens after the terrorist attack

The St. Francis' Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which was closed following an attack by some suspected terrorists 10 months ago, reopened for mass on Sunday as the entire world observed Easter, which is to remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

As the bandits flung some explosives on the altar, scattering the worshipers, no fewer than 41 churchgoers were killed and 69 others were injured.

The church received a large number of gifts from individuals and business entities to help with the care of the remaining attack victims who were injured.

In addition, the state government has started building a memorial park in Owo town in memory of the attack's fatal victims.

The park would be finished by May of this year, according to a pledge made by Rotimi Akeredolu, the governor of Ondo State.

As per customary, hundreds of worshipers flocked to the church on Sunday to celebrate Easter and to take in its fresh appearance, disregarding the awful incident that had befallen the building.

By their appearances and facial emotions, the worshippers filled the chapel to the brim with happiness and delight.

There were armed security personnel present, including both those in uniform and those wearing muftis, despite the calm general environment. They appeared to be there to ensure that there would be no disruption of law and order. As the personnel from the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Akure, were seen stationed on the grounds of the Catholic Church, patrol cars driven by members of the state police command were also spotted driving throughout the ancient city.

The worshipers were seen crying and unable to control their emotions as they shared their experiences with one another after meeting for the first time since the catastrophe. They remembered the dreadful and horrifying murders that took place on that critical day. Sadly, some people lost loved ones.