Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo says convicted kidnappers will face public execution after speedy trials as security operatives arrest suspects linked to a Benin City abduction
‘I Will Sign Death Warrants’ — Edo Governor Okpebholo Declares War on Kidnappers
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to kidnappers and other violent criminals operating in the state, declaring that he will personally sign death warrants for anyone convicted and sentenced to death for kidnapping and related offences.
The governor further vowed that such executions would be carried out publicly, underscoring his administration’s determination to rid Edo of criminal elements.
Okpebholo made the declaration in Benin City during a visit to the Edo State Police Command headquarters, where he inspected suspects recently arrested by police operatives in connection with a string of kidnapping incidents.
Among those paraded was 32-year-old Marvellous Issac, alleged to be a member of the gang responsible for the daylight abduction of Precious Ofure at the popular Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.
Police recovered a red Lexus RX 350 with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, N2.2 million believed to be ransom proceeds, and a motorcycle from the suspects.
The governor disclosed that he had directed security agencies to go after the kidnappers involved in the Vegetable Market abduction and praised the swift response that led to their arrest within 24 hours.
“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.
“No kidnapper will go free in Edo. They will be arrested. We are not sleeping. We are working to make sure Edo is safe.
“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.”
The governor also appealed to residents to avoid criminal activities and support ongoing efforts to strengthen security across the state. As a mark of appreciation for their role in the operation, he presented N10 million to the police officers involved in the arrest of the suspects.
Speaking during the visit, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, attributed recent successes recorded by the command to growing public confidence in the police.
According to him, residents are increasingly willing to provide useful intelligence, while technological support from the Inspector-General of Police has significantly enhanced crime-fighting efforts.
He said access to drones and other advanced security tools supplied by the IGP played a crucial role in tracking and apprehending the suspects.
The latest arrests come as the Edo State Government intensifies its crackdown on kidnapping and cult-related crimes, with Governor Okpebholo insisting that his administration will pursue every legal means necessary to restore public safety and ensure criminals face the full weight of the law.
