Okpebholo Threatens Death Penalty for Kidnappers and Announces Special Courts Initiative

The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, announced plans to establish a special court to try kidnappers and cultists in the state.

According to DAILY POST, Okpebholo made the statement on Thursday, June 18, 2026, during a parade of suspected kidnappers and cultists conducted by the Edo State Police Command.

He also declared that he would sign a death warrant for any suspect found guilty, to be executed by hanging.

“So I want to appeal to our people to stay away from cultism and stay away from kidnapping because it will take you nowhere,” he said. “It is cheaper for you to maintain your standard than to go into kidnapping and cultism because when you kidnap what you have before, you will lose it and you will lose your life.”

“Now we are going to set up a special court to try kidnappers and cultists. Within two or three weeks, we are done with it, and I will sign your execution warrant. I will take you to the roundabout, that is the Ring Road so that the whole people will see you. I will not have any regrets about it. So please don’t take my simplicity for granted,” he added.

He praised the Nigerian police and other security agencies for their commitment to fighting crime and criminality in the state.

Speaking further, the Governor, who asserted that Edo State is not safe for kidnappers, urged those sponsoring kidnappers and cult-related crises in the state to stop immediately.

“In Edo state, kidnappers and cultists will not settle here. My message to them is that whoever has such a mind for kidnapping should stop it. They cannot go scot‑free. No crime that will be committed in Edo state that such a person will not be arrested. Whoever is supporting you or aiding you to do it, please you have to stop because we are ready for you,” he said.