As violent kidnapping of citizens in Edo State continues in an upswing, Governor Monday Okpebholo, said he would expressly sign death warrants of persons convicted of kidnapping in the state.
The Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) had passed a bill amending the Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law (and Related Matters 2013).
The bill prescribes the death penalty for kidnappers and mandates the confiscation and demolition of properties used in the commission of their crimes.
“We will bring kidnappers to the public and execute them to show our seriousness according to the laws already passed by the EDHA. I will not be afraid to sign it,” Okpebholo declared at a stakeholders’ session at the Uromi Town Hall where the residents have endured rampant kidnappings in recent times.
Governor Okpebholo said his administration will not tolerate insecurity, killing, and kidnapping anymore in the State as he will deal ruthlessly with all criminal elements in the State.
“I take the issue of insecurity seriously and will not bend the rules but apply them strictly. The new law in the State permits us to demolish their properties and confiscate their lands. We will build vigilante team offices on those lands.
