Edo Governor Okpebholo Threatens Death Warrant for Kidnappers

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State announced that he would not hesitate to sign the death warrant for four convicted kidnappers from the Vegetable Market if they fail to appeal their sentence within the stipulated time. He emphasized that even if they appealed, it would only delay the inevitable.

This statement was made during a fellowship at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, where he reviewed his administration's efforts to address kidnapping, cultism, and other violent crimes in Edo State. Okpebholo highlighted that insecurity was a significant concern upon taking office.

He mentioned a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, where he received approval to tackle the security issues. The four defendants were sentenced to death by an Edo State Special Criminal Court on September 29, 2026, for the abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market.

Okpebholo also warned traditional rulers against interceding for individuals involved in crimes and shared personal experiences linked to spiritual forces after demolishing a cult group's building.