Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has confirmed that the dispute over the demolished Owo cenotaph has been peacefully resolved. The memorial, originally built to honour victims of a terrorist attack on a Catholic church, had sparked tension after its removal.
According to a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the resolution followed a meeting held at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Akure with key religious and community stakeholders. Present were the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Dr. Jude Arogundade; Bishop Steven Fagbemi of Owo Diocese; CAN representatives; and members of the Olowo-in-Council.
During the meeting, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of harmony between culture and religion. He explained that the original cenotaph was removed to avoid future communal conflicts and assured that a new one would be built at a more acceptable location in Owo.
He has appointed a team to work with stakeholders and the church to ensure the new memorial respects both religious sentiments and community traditions.
Bishop Arogundade and other church leaders acknowledged that the backlash was unnecessary and expressed full support for relocating the cenotaph. They also affirmed their long-standing relationship with the Owo community and pledged to respect its traditions and leadership.
Governor Aiyedatiwa cautioned against any statements or actions that could incite unrest, calling for unity and mutual respect going forward.
