Oshiomhole Backs Death Penalty for Kidnappers, Bandits in Edo .
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, has endorsed the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits put forward by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.Oshiomhole made the declaration while addressing supporters at the flag-off of the Edo North Senatorial District local government election campaign held in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, on Saturday.According to a statement issued on Sunday by Governor Okpebholo’s media aide, Patrick Ebojele, the former governor commended the current administration for restoring civil liberties in the state, insisting that only criminals had reason to fear the government’s policies.
He expressed support for the governor’s position that states have the constitutional authority to enact laws prescribing punishments for offences within their jurisdiction.”I stand here to completely endorse the declaration by the governor of Edo State that we are in a federation where every state has the right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. So kidnappers and bandits will be punished by death through firing squad,” Oshiomhole said.
The senator maintained that the proposed measure would serve as a strong deterrent against violent crimes, particularly kidnapping and banditry, which have become major security challenges in parts of the country.Governor Okpebholo’s proposal has continued to generate public debate, with supporters arguing that tougher sanctions are necessary to curb insecurity, while critics are expected to raise concerns over its legal and human rights implications
Joseph Akwagiobe is a media contributor from Cross River State, Nigeria, currently based in Abuja. He is a graduate of Microbiology and has earned several professional certifications across diverse fields, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and excellence.