More than thirteen years after the deadly attack on a Deeper Life Bible Church in Otite, near Okene, Kogi State, families of victims and survivors say renewed prosecution efforts have restored their confidence in the justice system.
Their reaction follows the recent re-arrest and arraignment of Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki, the suspected mastermind of the 7 August 2012 gun attack that left over 19 worshippers dead and dozens injured.
Victims, survivors, and community leaders say the speed with which the Department of State Services (DSS) re-arrested and arraigned Obadaki has rekindled hope that justice, long delayed, may finally be achieved.
On the morning of the attack, three gunmen armed with AK-47 rifles opened fire on worshippers during a Bible study session at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Otite. Fifteen people died at the scene, while four others later succumbed to their injuries. The attack was later linked to the Ansaru terrorist group.
Following the church attack, Obadaki allegedly led a series of violent operations, including coordinated bank robberies in Uromi, Edo State, during which several people were killed and large sums of money stolen.
He was eventually arrested and remanded at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja but escaped during the July 2022 jailbreak, raising widespread concern among victims’ families that the case had collapsed permanently.
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That concern eased on 15 November 2025, when the DSS announced that Obadaki had been recaptured.
Six days later, he was arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism, conspiracy, aiding terrorist attacks, concealment of information, and escape from lawful custody.
Obadaki pleaded guilty only to the charge relating to his escape from custody. The court adjourned the case to 26 January 2026 and ordered that he remain in DSS custody pending further proceedings.
Residents of Otite say the renewed prosecution has restored faith in the system.
A community leader said years of delay had created deep frustration and doubt. According to him, the prolonged absence of a trial and Obadaki’s escape from custody made justice appear unattainable.
He said the recent actions by the DSS signal a change, adding that the community now believes the courts will be allowed to conclude the case without further setbacks.
Victims and survivors say while the scars of the attack remain, they are encouraged that accountability may finally be achieved through the judicial process.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
