Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has backed the Edo State government’s proposal to execute people convicted of kidnapping. He said the measure would discourage the crime and argued that states have the power to determine punishments for offenses under their jurisdiction.
Oshiomhole made the remarks while addressing supporters at the launch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government election campaign in Auchi, Edo State. He was speaking in support of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s proposal to replace hanging with death by firing squad for convicted kidnappers and murderers.
“The declaration by Governor of Edo state, Governor Okpebholo, that we are in a federation. Like in American Federation, every state has a right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. So, kidnapping and murder fall within the state offences. And he has decided, together with the House of Assembly, to replace hanging with firing squad,” Oshiomhole said.
He said the proposed punishment would serve as a deterrent to those considering kidnapping.
“Those who don’t want to suffer that, should not come to Edo state. So, we rise to give it full support,” he said.
Oshiomhole also repeated his support for the creation of state police, saying it would strengthen efforts to fight insecurity.
“As your Senator, I supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Governors Forum decision to create state police,” he said.
He argued that state police would be better equipped to confront heavily armed criminals.
“So that, instead of using vigilante with old-fashioned gun, while criminals are carrying AK-47, when we have state police, governor Monday will have the right to buy the latest… To deal with these criminals,” Oshiomhole said.
The proposal is part of the Edo State Government’s efforts to address kidnapping and other violent crimes. It has also renewed discussion about the use of the death penalty and the powers of states to make laws on criminal offenses.