OWO, ONDO STATE — A cenotaph built to honour the victims of the gruesome 2022 Owo church massacre has been demolished by the Ondo State Government on the directive of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, sparking renewed controversy and mixed reactions across the state.
The Memorial Park, commissioned in 2023 by the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, was erected in remembrance of the over 40 worshippers killed during a mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, in June 2022. The horrific attack drew nationwide and international condemnation and prompted Akeredolu to immortalise the victims through a symbolic structure in the heart of the ancient town.
However, the park’s location—directly opposite the palace of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye—has long been a source of dispute. The traditional ruler reportedly opposed the siting of the memorial, citing cultural and spiritual objections, which were echoed by several community members who described it as “a taboo for the monarch to behold such a monument.”
A viral video over the weekend showed the structure being pulled down, with many residents expressing shock and disappointment. Confirming the development on Sunday, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s spokesperson, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the demolition followed a formal request from the palace.
“It was a special request from the palace of the Olowo as it is said to be against the culture and tradition to site such near the palace,” Adeniyan stated.
The removal of the cenotaph, which bore the names of the massacre victims, has reignited emotional responses from those who saw the park as a symbol of justice, remembrance, and resilience. As of press time, the state government has not announced plans for a possible relocation or reconstruction of the memorial.
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