Okpebholo Vows Public Hanging for Convicted Kidnappers, Unveils Special Courts

Okpebholo Vows Public Hanging for Convicted Kidnappers, Unveils Special Courts

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has vowed to intensify the fight against kidnapping in Edo State, warning that anyone convicted of the crime could face public execution as his administration moves to establish special courts for the speedy trial of kidnapping and cultism cases.

The governor made the remarks on Thursday at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City after interrogating suspects linked to a recent abduction case in the state.

According to Okpebholo, his administration is finalizing plans to create special courts for kidnapping and cultism cases, with a mandate to conclude trials and deliver judgments within two to three weeks.

He said the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen security and ensure swift justice for victims of violent crimes.

“Now we are going to set up a special court to try suspected kidnappers and cultists. Within two to three weeks, we are done with it, and I will sign it,” the governor said.

Okpebholo further stated that convicted kidnappers would face severe punishment, declaring that he would have no regrets in enforcing the law against those found guilty.

“The execution — hang him. I will take you to the roundabout so that the whole of Edo people will see you, and on this I will have no regrets,” he said.

The governor’s comments come amid growing concerns over kidnapping and insecurity in Edo State, with residents and stakeholders calling for stronger measures to curb criminal activities.

READ ALSO:

• Fixing Nigeria’s Logistics Crisis: Oyetola, Stakeholders Demand Seamless Multimodal Infrastructure
• Bandits Fear Death, Not God, Says Ex-NYSC DG Tsiga After 56-Day Captivity
• Biden, Clinton, Bush Join Obama for Historic Presidential Centre Opening

Addressing criminal elements operating in the state, Okpebholo warned that no offender would escape justice, regardless of their influence or support network.

“My message to them is simple: whoever has such a mind to kidnap should know that you cannot do it and go free. There is no crime that will be committed in Edo State that such a person will not be arrested,” he said.

He also cautioned individuals providing assistance or shelter to kidnappers and cultists, stressing that security agencies had been directed to track down all those involved in criminal activities.

“Whoever is supporting you or aiding you to do it should stop because we are ready for you. We are not joking. We are not sleeping. Day and night, security agencies are working to make sure that this land is safe,” the governor added.

The announcement follows a recent kidnapping incident involving a woman in Benin City, an event that has heightened public concern over security in the state.

The proposed special courts in Edo State are expected to accelerate the prosecution of suspects and reduce delays often associated with criminal trials. The initiative is also part of the state government’s broader strategy to tackle kidnapping, cultism, and violent crimes through a combination of law enforcement operations and judicial reforms.

While the governor’s remarks have generated widespread attention, legal experts note that criminal punishments in Nigeria remain subject to constitutional provisions, existing laws, and judicial processes.

As the state government moves forward with the proposed courts, attention will focus on how the initiative will be implemented and its impact on the fight against kidnapping in Edo State.

Okpebholo Vows Public Hanging for Convicted Kidnappers, Unveils Special Courts