Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to kidnappers, declaring that anyone caught in the act within the state will face the death penalty—specifically by hanging. The governor also pledged to sign death warrants without hesitation for convicted offenders.
Governor Okpebholo made the declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Uromi Town Hall, where he engaged with leaders and members of the Arewa community in Esanland.
The move follows the recent amendment to the state’s Kidnapping Prohibition Law (2013) by the Edo State House of Assembly, which now prescribes capital punishment for kidnapping offenses. The amended law also authorizes the confiscation and demolition of properties used in connection with such crimes.
“We will bring kidnappers out in public and execute them to demonstrate how serious we are,” Okpebholo said. “I will not be afraid to sign death warrants.”
The governor emphasized that his administration will not tolerate insecurity, killings, or any form of criminality in Edo State. He warned that all criminal elements would be dealt with decisively under the full weight of the law.
“This new law allows us to demolish properties linked to kidnappers and confiscate their land. We will even establish vigilante offices on those lands,” he said.
A Holistic Approach to Security
Okpebholo stressed the importance of collective action in securing the state, noting that security is not the sole responsibility of government agencies.
“Security is everyone’s business. We’re moving away from the era of unpaid uniformed men posing as vigilantes. We will now employ and pay properly trained vigilante teams to work alongside security agencies.”
He also announced plans to fence markets, install streetlights, and build abattoirs to better regulate activities, especially those related to livestock sales.
“We must begin profiling individuals from other states who claim to be from the North. We need to ensure they don’t tarnish your image. Edo people must be secure.”
Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift support in preventing further escalation of the recent violent incident in Uromi. He stated that the president is committed to restoring peace and addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“Some of those behind the unrest are not even Nigerians—they are foreigners. But President Tinubu is determined to bring lasting peace to our country,” he said.
Community Leaders Commend Governor’s Action
Alhaji Bawa Umar, chairman of the Arewa community in Edo Central, thanked the governor and the Onojie of Uromi for their efforts in restoring peace. He praised the governor’s approach to security and pledged the community’s support.
Similarly, Alhaji Isah Muhammad, chairman of the Uromi Cattle Market, commended Governor Okpebholo’s intervention during the recent crisis, noting that it helped de-escalate tensions in the area.
Retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe called on the Arewa leadership to maintain a proper database of their members and take responsibility for their actions.
“You must advise your people and monitor their behavior to ensure no one is involved in criminal activities,” he urged.
