Former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, has endorsed the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits being considered by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
Oshiomhole spoke on Saturday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress campaign for the Edo North Senatorial District local government elections at the Public Field in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
According to him, Edo State has the constitutional authority to enact laws prescribing punishments for offences committed within its territory, stressing that tougher sanctions are needed to tackle insecurity.
“I stand here to completely endorse the declaration by the governor of Edo State that we are in a federation where every state has the right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. So kidnappers and bandits will be punished by death through firing squad,” he said.
The former governor also reiterated his support for state police, saying decentralised policing would strengthen efforts to combat criminal activities and improve security at the grassroots.
The endorsement comes at a time when concerns over kidnapping and violent crimes continue to dominate national discourse, prompting calls for stronger deterrent measures across several states.
Governor Monday Okpebholo said his administration remains focused on improving living conditions through investments in roads, schools, markets and other public infrastructure.
“We have embarked on massive infrastructural development in the state, including roads, schools, markets and others. These achievements were not there in the past, but this administration has made them possible,” he said.
The governor also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, noting that increased allocations to states have enabled governments to undertake more development projects.
He urged APC supporters to mobilise for the upcoming local government elections and work towards delivering significant electoral support for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oshiomhole also highlighted the reconstruction of the historic Jattu Market, describing it as a major economic asset in Edo North.
Recalling his childhood experiences at the market, he said it had long served as a commercial hub for communities across the senatorial district.
“As a child, I wove and sold baskets in this market. All the communities in Edo North come here on market days to trade in various commodities,” he said.
He dismissed criticisms surrounding the cost of the redevelopment project, insisting that the investment reflects the scale and quality of the work being undertaken.
The Jattu Market project forms part of the Okpebholo administration’s broader efforts to modernise commercial centres across Edo State, including Oba Market and the Ekpoma Modern Market.
Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh, Edo APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe, Deputy State Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh and other party leaders attended the campaign event.
