Adams Oshiomhole, the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, has endorsed the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits put forward by the administration of Monday Okpebholo.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Patrick Ebojele, Oshiomhole made the remarks while addressing party supporters at the flag-off of the Edo North Senatorial District local government election campaign at the Public Field in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Oshiomhole said civil liberties had been restored under the Okpebholo administration, adding that only criminals had reason to fear the state government.
“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 the establishment of state police, arguing that such a system would complement the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in tackling insecurity across the country.
Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo said his administration remained committed to improving the welfare of Edo residents through infrastructure development and other public projects.
He said the government had embarked on major projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, schools and markets, aimed at improving the quality of life of residents.
“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,” the governor said.
The proposal to introduce the death penalty for kidnapping and banditry would require the appropriate legislative process before it can become law. The constitutionality and implementation of such a measure could also be subject to judicial review if enacted.
