Senator representing Edo North and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, has thrown his weight behind the Edo State Government’s proposal to impose the death penalty on convicted kidnappers and bandits, saying tougher punishment is necessary to curb rising insecurity.
Oshiomhole made the remarks while addressing party supporters at the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the forthcoming local government elections. The event was held at the Public Field in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The former governor endorsed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s position on capital punishment for violent criminals, arguing that states have the constitutional authority to enact laws prescribing penalties for offences committed within their jurisdictions.
According to him, kidnappers and bandits who terrorise innocent citizens deserve the highest punishment under the law, stressing that decisive measures are needed to restore security and public confidence.
Oshiomhole also expressed support for the establishment of state police, saying a decentralised policing system would complement the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in tackling insecurity across the country.
He maintained that civil liberties had been restored under the Okpebholo administration, insisting that law-abiding residents had nothing to fear, while only criminals would be uncomfortable with the government’s security measures.
Speaking at the rally, Governor Monday Okpebholo said his administration remains committed to improving the welfare of Edo residents through massive infrastructure development across the state.
The governor listed ongoing projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, schools and markets, describing them as evidence of his administration’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends.
Okpebholo also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, saying the policy had increased allocations to state governments and provided resources for developmental projects.
According to him, the additional revenue has enabled the Edo State Government to embark on critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life of residents.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the governor urged party members to mobilise support for the APC, expressing confidence that Edo State would deliver 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu.
He also commended the rehabilitation of the Auchi–Ekpoma–Benin Road, describing it as one of the major achievements of the Tinubu administration.
Also addressing party faithful, the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, called on APC candidates to focus on grassroots development if elected into office, stressing that local government administration remains the closest level of government to the people.
The APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, similarly urged candidates to prioritise service delivery and work closely with the state government to extend development to all 18 local government areas of Edo State.
