Edo Stands Firm on Death Penalty for Kidnappers

The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its resolve to execute convicted kidnappers and cultists as part of efforts to curb insecurity across the state.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, stated this during the bi-monthly ministerial briefing of the Ministry of Information and Strategy in Benin City. He said Governor Monday Okpebholo remains committed to enforcing the law and will not be swayed by pressure from organisations such as Amnesty International.
Afegbua called on residents of Edo State to support the administration’s collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies in the fight against insecurity. He also maintained that granting amnesty to kidnappers only emboldens them to commit more crimes.
According to him, Governor Okpebholo has made it clear that convicted kidnappers will be executed regardless of objections from Amnesty International. He recalled that when former Governor Adams Oshiomhole signed death warrants, the state received 17 petitions from the organisation. Afegbua added that the government has invested heavily in security, established Special Courts, and is already recording positive results, while urging continued cooperation from the public and the media.