DSS arrests sixth suspect linked to 2022 Owo church massacre

The Department of State Services has arrested a sixth suspect linked to the deadly 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, marking a major development in the ongoing investigation into one of Nigeria’s most shocking acts of violence in recent years.

The suspect, identified as Sani Yusuf, was described by security sources as a “high-profile commander” of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a militant group responsible for multiple attacks across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

Authorities say Yusuf is the sixth individual arrested in connection with the June 5, 2022, church attack, which left more than 40 worshippers dead and several others injured during a Sunday service.

Arrest follows years-long investigation

According to security sources quoted by state broadcaster Nigerian Television Authority, Yusuf was apprehended in Iguosa community, located along the Powerline in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Investigators said the suspect had initially fled to Kano State after the attack before relocating to Edo, where he reportedly stayed under the radar in a quiet community.

Security officials disclosed that Yusuf has since confessed to participating in the planning and execution of the church massacre. His arrest follows a sustained intelligence operation involving surveillance, tracking, and forensic analysis aimed at dismantling networks linked to the attack.

Authorities believe his capture could provide critical insights into the operational structure of the militant group and help identify additional suspects.

Five other suspects are already facing prosecution

The DSS is already prosecuting five suspects in connection with the massacre. They include Idris Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, who are accused of masterminding and facilitating the attack.

The suspects are currently facing trial in connection with terrorism-related offences, as authorities continue to build their case.

Also read: Breaking: Gunmen abduct 6 worshippers in Ondo church

Investigators say digital forensic tools played a key role in identifying and tracking suspects, enabling security agencies to establish links between individuals involved in the planning and execution of the attack.

Security officials added that Yusuf also confessed to involvement in other terrorist operations attributed to ISWAP, including the July 2022 attack on a military barracks in Suleja and kidnappings in Kaduna State and surrounding areas.

Authorities said he operated under senior ISWAP commanders, including Abu Ikirimah, who was arrested by security operatives in 2024.

Renewed hope for justice and accountability

The arrest is seen as a significant breakthrough in efforts to bring justice to victims of the Owo church attack, which sparked national outrage and renewed calls for stronger security measures across Nigeria.

The massacre, which targeted worshippers during a religious service, was widely condemned by government officials, religious leaders, and civil society groups, and highlighted the evolving threat posed by militant groups operating beyond their traditional strongholds.

Security agencies say investigations are ongoing, and additional arrests may follow as authorities continue efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent future attacks.

The DSS has not yet announced when Yusuf will be formally charged in court, but officials say his arrest represents an important step toward accountability for one of the country’s deadliest church attacks in recent years.