RismadarVoice Reporters
November 11, 2026
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has declared that he will sign execution warrants for convicted kidnappers, regardless of their relationship with him, insisting that even his father would not be exempted.
The governor made the declaration in a video circulated on Tuesday, reaffirming his administration’s determination to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Okpebholo said individuals convicted of kidnapping offences carrying the death penalty would face the consequences prescribed by law, adding that he was prepared to personally supervise executions.
He argued that kidnapping had caused considerable suffering, including deaths, injuries and psychological trauma among victims and their families.
The governor cited incidents involving a woman who was allegedly assaulted during an attempted abduction and an attack on the state’s Chief Judge, who he claimed sustained serious injuries.
He said the experiences of victims demonstrated the need for stronger measures against violent criminal activities.
Okpebholo disclosed that he had contacted the state Attorney-General to ascertain the status of documents relating to convicted kidnappers.
He also indicated that his administration would pursue cases through the appeal process rather than abandon prosecutions following convictions.
The governor’s comments come amid the implementation of the Edo State Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025, which introduced tougher penalties for kidnapping offences.
Under provisions described in reports of the amended legislation, kidnapping resulting in a victim’s death attracts capital punishment, while offences in which victims survive may attract life imprisonment.
The law also provides penalties for individuals who assist or support kidnapping activities.
In September 2026, four men were sentenced to death by a special criminal court in Edo State over the abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.
The convicts were identified as Marvellous Isaac, Wisdom Michael, Rufus Emete Michael and Gift Raphael.
The case arose from an abduction that occurred on June 14, 2026.
Okpebholo had earlier indicated that he would consider signing execution warrants where convicted offenders failed to appeal within the stipulated period.
His administration also established a special criminal court to accelerate proceedings involving kidnapping and cult-related offences.
However, the implementation of any death sentence remains subject to applicable legal procedures, including the rights of convicted persons to pursue appeals.
The governor maintained that his administration would continue strengthening security measures and prosecuting individuals involved in violent crimes.
