Okpebholo Declares War on Kidnappers, Vows to Sign Death Warrants and Enforce Public Executions in Edo

• Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has vowed to sign the death warrants of convicted kidnappers and other criminals sentenced to death, warning that his administration will adopt tougher measures to combat insecurity.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to kidnappers and other violent criminals, declaring that anyone sentenced to death for kidnapping in the state will have their death warrant signed and enforced under his administration.

The governor made the declaration during a visit to the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City, where he met with suspects recently arrested in connection with kidnapping activities across the state.

Among those paraded was 32-year-old Marvellous Issac, alleged to be a member of a gang involved in the abduction of one Precious Ofure. The victim was reportedly kidnapped in broad daylight at the popular Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.

Security operatives recovered several items from the suspects, including a red Lexus RX 350 with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, ₦2.2 million believed to be ransom proceeds, and a motorcycle.

Governor Okpebholo praised security agencies for swiftly responding to the incident, noting that he had personally directed security operatives to track down those responsible for the kidnapping. According to him, the suspects were apprehended within 24 hours of the crime.

He revealed that one member of the gang was killed during the operation, while two others escaped and are currently being hunted by security agencies.

“In the process, one of the kidnappers died. Two others escaped. This is to tell you that security operatives are working. I wonder why people will say the President is not doing anything to tackle insecurity. Kidnappers will never find peace in Edo. They will not settle here,” the governor said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring safety across the state, Okpebholo declared that kidnappers would find no refuge in Edo.

“No kidnapper will go free in Edo. They will be arrested. We are not sleeping. We are working to make sure Edo is safe,” he stated.

The governor also announced plans to establish a special court dedicated to handling cases involving kidnapping and cult-related crimes. He said the court would ensure speedy trials, with cases concluded within two weeks.

“I am going to set up a special court to try kidnappers and cultists. The cases will be determined within two weeks. I will sign the death warrant. They will be publicly executed. Do not take my simplicity for granted,” Okpebholo warned.

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Speaking during the visit, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, attributed recent successes in tackling crime to increased public cooperation and improved intelligence gathering.

According to him, residents now have greater confidence in the police and are willingly providing useful information that has aided investigations.

Agbonika also disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police had strengthened the command’s operations by providing access to drones and other advanced technologies, which played a crucial role in tracking and apprehending criminal suspects.

The governor’s remarks come amid growing concerns over kidnapping and violent crimes in parts of Edo State, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks and improve public safety.