Okpebholo vows to sign death warrant against convicted kidnappers after 30 days

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State says he will sign the death warrants of four kidnappers sentenced to death by the state’s Special Criminal Court, if they fail to appeal within 30 days.

Mr Okpebholo stated this while recounting his administration’s efforts to tackle kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities at the God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, Ekpoma, on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the defendants were sentenced to death by an Edo State Special Criminal Court on 29 September over the abduction of a woman at the vegetable market along Airport Road, Benin.

The governor said insecurity was a major concern when he assumed office but decided to prioritise tackling it, after raising the issue with President Bola Tinubu, who urged him to go ahead.

“When the kidnappers attacked the vegetable market area, I told the commissioner of police that I wanted them arrested without delay,” he said.

The governor said the suspects had been sentenced to death and expressed hope that they would not appeal the judgement.

“If within 30 days they don’t appeal, I will execute (it),” he added.

The governor also said he had consulted prominent traditional rulers across the state before commencing his administration’s campaign against kidnapping and cultism.

Mr Okpebholo said he warned the traditional rulers against intervening on behalf of anyone involved in criminal activities.

“I told them not to come begging me because I will not listen,” he said.

The governor recounted incidents he associated with spiritual forces following his administration’s demolition of a building linked to a cult group.

“A black bird died in my office when I demolished their building. A vulture also died in my bed while I was contesting for governorship,” he added.

Earlier, the cleric, Ehijele Umuahia, founder of God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, urged his church members to vote Mr Okpebholo and his preferred candidates in the 2027 general elections.

Mr Umuahia, citing Proverbs 29:2, urged the congregation to complement their prayers for the governor with active participation in the electoral process.

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He said Christians should not only pray for Governor Okpebholo but also come out to vote for him and his preferred candidates.

The cleric described Mr Okpebholo as a humble man, whose commitment to the things of God predated his emergence as governor.

“I have known him for over 15 years, dating back to the days of Chief Tony Anenih of blessed memory.

“Whenever Anenih came to visit me, he was one of those who accompanied him. That was how we came to know each other,” he said.

Mr Umuahia said Mr Okpebholo had maintained his devotion to God despite his demanding schedule before becoming governor.