Former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole has endorsed the death penalty proposed by Governor Monday Okpebholo for kidnappers and bandits, as the Oshiomhole death penalty stance gains traction ahead of local elections

Former Edo State Governor and senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, has backed the death penalty proposed by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo for kidnappers and bandits.

Oshiomhole spoke while addressing party supporters at the flag-off of the Edo North Senatorial District local government election campaign held at the public field in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State on Saturday 27 June 2026.

In a statement on Sunday by Okpebholo’s media aide, Patrick Ebojele, Oshiomhole said civil liberties had been restored in Edo State under Okpebholo’s administration, adding that only criminals had reasons to fear the state.

“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.

He added that he supported the creation of state police, saying it would complement the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in tackling insecurity.

Also speaking at the event, Okpebholo said his administration was committed to working for the development and well-being of Edo people, noting that several projects had been initiated across the state.

He said the government had embarked on major infrastructure projects, including roads, schools and markets, which he said were aimed at improving the lives of residents.

Okpebholo also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, saying it had increased resources available to state governments for development projects.

The governor said the campaign was an opportunity to introduce APC candidates to voters and urged supporters to work towards delivering 2.5 million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

The Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, urged the candidates to prioritise grassroots development if elected, saying they must ensure residents across Edo’s 18 local government areas benefit from democracy.

This Oshiomhole death penalty endorsement reflects growing support for tougher measures against insecurity in Edo State, where kidnapping and banditry have remained significant concerns.