Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that any person caught engaging in kidnapping in the state will face the death penalty. The governor made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting with leaders of the Arewa community in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized his administration’s firm stance on tackling insecurity, adding that he is ready to sign death warrants for convicted kidnappers. According to him, this is part of the state government’s broader strategy to restore peace and protect law-abiding citizens.
The governor’s statement follows the recent passage of an amended anti-kidnapping law by the Edo State House of Assembly. The new legislation, known as the **Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law, prescribes death by hanging for those convicted of kidnapping and authorizes the confiscation and demolition of any property used to commit such crimes.
In a statement released by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Friday, Okpebholo said the law is necessary to deal decisively with criminal elements causing unrest in the state.
“I take the issue of insecurity seriously and will not bend the rules but apply them strictly,” the governor said. “The new law permits us to demolish their properties and confiscate their lands. We will build vigilante offices on those lands. We will bring kidnappers to the public and execute them to show our seriousness according to the law passed by the Edo State House of Assembly. I will not be afraid to sign it.”
Governor Okpebholo made it clear that under his watch, insecurity and lawlessness will not be tolerated. He vowed to pursue criminals without fear or favour and ensure they are punished according to the law.
He also announced plans to employ and properly train local vigilante teams to work closely with security agencies. These teams, he explained, will receive monthly salaries and undergo training to handle crime and protect lives.
“Security is not only the job of the police and army; it is the responsibility of all of us,” he said. “Unlike before, when people would just wear vigilante uniforms without being paid, we will employ real vigilante members, train them, and pay them like real security agents.”
In a bold move to improve security in public spaces, especially markets, Governor Okpebholo said his government will begin profiling people from other states, especially those claiming to be from the North, to ensure they are not criminals hiding among innocent traders.
He also announced plans to fence markets, install streetlights, and build modern abattoirs for cattle butchers.
“We will not allow criminals to use our markets and public places as hideouts. We will secure the people of Edo State,” the governor said.
The governor referenced a recent violent incident in Uromi and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his timely intervention, which helped prevent further destruction and bloodshed.
“Those destroying our communities are not even Nigerians — many of them are foreigners. But the President has promised to support us and ensure peace returns to every part of Nigeria,” Okpebholo said.
He assured the people of Esan land and the entire Edo State that his government would act swiftly to protect them from future attacks.
The governor’s strong message on security was welcomed by the Arewa community in Edo Central. Their leaders pledged their full support to the governor’s administration and promised to help maintain peace.
Speaking at the meeting, Bawa Umar, Chairman of the Arewa community in Edo Central, said the governor had done well in handling the recent crisis in Uromi and had helped reduce tension in the area.
Also speaking, Isah Muhammad, Chairman of the Uromi Cattle Market, thanked the governor for responding promptly during the Uromi incident. He said the quick action helped calm the situation and prevent further conflict.
Retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe also spoke at the meeting, urging the Arewa community to keep a proper database of their members to help identify and monitor newcomers. He said this would make it easier to account for people within the community and prevent criminal infiltration.
“I appeal to the Arewa leaders to take responsibility by advising their members and monitoring their activities. A proper database will help us all stay safe and work together for peace,” he said.
Edo State, like many other states in Nigeria, has been battling increasing cases of kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes in recent years. Areas such as Uromi, Ekpoma, Auchi, and parts of Benin City have witnessed several security incidents involving armed gangs.
In response, state governments across Nigeria have been strengthening their local security structures, with many establishing vigilante networks and passing stiffer laws to combat these crimes.
The latest move by Governor Okpebholo signals Edo State’s readiness to take a tougher approach to secure its people and send a strong message to criminals.
The new law is expected to take full effect immediately, with enforcement agencies now empowered to arrest kidnappers, seize the tools of their crime, and begin legal proceedings that may end in execution if the suspects are convicted.
The state government has also promised to increase cooperation with local communities, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to ensure security is improved at all levels.
As the country continues to seek lasting solutions to insecurity, Edo’s bold approach could serve as a model for other states looking to take a firm stance against criminality.
