By: Ganiyu Olayinka
Former Edo State Governor and Senator for Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has publicly backed a proposal by Governor Monday Okpebholo to impose the death penalty on kidnappers and bandits operating in the state.
Speaking at the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress campaign for Edo North Senatorial District local government elections in Auchi on Saturday, Oshiomhole described the measure as essential to reversing the tide of insecurity in Edo.
“I stand here to completely endorse the declaration by the governor of Edo State,” he said. “We are in a federation where every state has the right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. Kidnappers and bandits will be punished by death through firing squad.”
The senator argued that under the current administration, only those engaged in criminal activity had reason to fear the government, and reiterated his support for state policing as a complement to the Nigeria Police Force.
Governor Okpebholo, also addressing the rally, outlined his administration’s infrastructural agenda, pointing to ongoing construction of roads, schools, and markets across the state. He credited President Bola Tinubu’s removal of the fuel subsidy with unlocking additional revenue for state-level development.
“The removal of fuel subsidy has provided more funds for governors across the country to develop their states,” he said. “This is the money we are using to drive massive road construction, schools, and other infrastructure projects in Edo.”
Okpebholo urged APC supporters to mobilise ahead of next month’s council elections and set a target of 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh called on APC candidates, if elected, to prioritise grassroots development and ensure residents across all 18 local government areas felt the impact of democratic governance. APC State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe echoed that message, urging candidates to focus on service delivery at the community level.
Tags: #Edo #Oshiomhole #Okpebholo #kidnappers