Edo Governor Okpebholo to Execute Kidnap Convicts Soon

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State stated he would sign the death warrants of four convicts involved in a kidnapping case at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City, if they do not appeal their sentences within 30 days. This announcement was made through Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

During a fellowship at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, Okpebholo expressed his concerns about insecurity, which he identified as a significant issue upon taking office. He recounted a conversation with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the kidnapping incident, stating he prayed for the kidnappers' capture, which occurred within 24 hours.

The convicts were sentenced to death by an Edo State Special Criminal Court on September 29, 2026. Okpebholo also mentioned his prior warnings to traditional rulers against interceding for individuals involved in crimes and shared experiences of strange occurrences linked to spiritual forces after demolishing a cult-associated building.