Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has made it clear that he won’t hesitate to sign death warrants for convicted kidnappers, reinforcing his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on insecurity.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Uromi Town Hall in Esan North-East LGA, Governor Okpebholo addressed members of the Arewa community, urging criminals to abandon their activities or face the full wrath of the law.
His comments follow the recent amendment by the Edo State House of Assembly, which now prescribes the death penalty for kidnapping and authorizes the demolition of properties used to commit such crimes.
“I take the issue of insecurity seriously. The new law allows us to demolish kidnappers’ homes and seize their lands. We’ll even build vigilante offices on those lands,” the Governor declared. “We will publicly expose and execute kidnappers, following the law. I won’t be afraid to sign their death warrants.”
He further revealed plans to professionalize the state’s vigilante groups by offering them salaries and proper training in collaboration with security agencies. According to him, these steps are aimed at establishing a reliable grassroots defense against criminal activities.
To enhance market security, Governor Okpebholo announced plans to fence markets, install streetlights, and construct abattoirs.
He also emphasized the importance of identifying and monitoring people from other states, particularly those claiming to be from the North, to prevent criminal infiltration and protect the Arewa community’s reputation.
Acknowledging the efforts made by President Bola Tinubu in ensuring peace in the region, the Governor said the Federal Government’s support helped prevent further violence after the killing of 16 hunters in Uromi.
Alhaji Bawa Umar, chairman of the Arewa community in Edo Central, praised the Governor and the Onojie of Uromi for their role in restoring peace, while Alhaji Isah Muhammad, chairman of the Uromi Cattle Market, thanked the Governor for managing the crisis effectively.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika has assured residents that there will be no reprisal attacks following the Uromi killings.
He attributed the restored calm to swift government actions, including Governor Okpebholo’s outreach to Kano State, which led to the deputy governor’s visit to Edo for reconciliation talks.
Agbonika added that beyond Uromi, he has toured other key areas with large northern populations—like Igara and Auchi—to ensure ongoing dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
“With all the steps taken, I believe the situation has been successfully resolved, and peace is returning to the affected areas,” the Commissioner concluded.
Stay informed with NIGPOST as we continue to follow Governor Okpebholo’s bold steps to secure Edo State.
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