Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has thrown his support behind the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits being championed by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Oshiomhole made the declaration while addressing supporters during the flag-off of the APC local government election campaign in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, where he said only criminals should be worried by the state’s security measures.
Backing the governor’s position, Oshiomhole argued that states have the constitutional authority to enact laws addressing crimes committed within their jurisdictions.
“I fully support the governor’s position that kidnappers and bandits should face the death penalty by firing squad. Law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear in Edo State,” he said.
The former governor also expressed support for the establishment of state police, saying it would strengthen efforts to combat insecurity and complement the work of the Nigeria Police Force.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, who also addressed party supporters, said his administration remains committed to improving the lives of Edo residents through infrastructure development and other people-oriented projects.
According to the governor, the state government has embarked on the construction of roads, schools, markets and other projects aimed at boosting development across Edo.
Okpebholo also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, saying the policy has increased the funds available to state governments for development.
He urged party members to mobilise support for the APC ahead of the forthcoming local government election and called on supporters to work towards delivering 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The governor also commended the rehabilitation of the Auchi-Ekpoma-Benin Road, describing it as one of the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, urged APC candidates to prioritise grassroots development if elected, while the party’s state chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, charged them to focus on effective service delivery at the local government level.
