Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a strong warning to kidnappers, cultists, and other criminal elements operating in the state, declaring that anyone convicted of such offences will face the full weight of the law, including the death penalty where applicable.
The governor made the remarks on Thursday while addressing journalists and security personnel during the parade of criminal suspects at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City. He also rewarded police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect linked to Sunday’s kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market.
Okpebholo announced plans to establish a special court dedicated to the speedy prosecution of kidnapping and cultism cases, saying trials would be concluded within two weeks.
“We are going to set up a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists. Within two weeks, the court is done with proceedings. I will sign your execution. We will take you to the Ring Road roundabout so that Edo people can watch. I will have no regret about it. Don’t take my simplicity for granted,” the governor said.
According to the governor, he immediately directed the Commissioner of Police to track down those responsible for the recent kidnapping incident. He disclosed that one suspect had been arrested, another was killed during the operation, while two others remain on the run.
Okpebholo warned that criminals and those sponsoring criminal activities would no longer find Edo State a safe haven.
“They will never find peace in Edo. The message to all criminals is that they will not go free after committing a crime in this state. You will be arrested. We are ready for you and your sponsors. We are working day and night to make sure this land is safe,” he stated.
The governor also defended the Federal Government’s security efforts, arguing that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has continued to provide the necessary funding for security agencies, resulting in improved operations across the country.
“I wonder why people keep complaining that the president is not working. The president is funding the security operatives to function well. That is why we are happy about the results we are getting today,” he said.
Criminals Recruiting from Outside Edo
Speaking earlier at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Okpebholo expressed concern over the evolving tactics of criminal gangs.
According to him, some individuals now recruit criminals from outside Edo State to carry out kidnapping operations before handing victims over to accomplices hiding in the bush.
He also questioned the source of wealth displayed by some young people, noting that many often attribute their sudden affluence to internet fraud.
Appeal to Clergy and Residents
The governor urged religious leaders not to interfere by pleading for suspects arrested over criminal offences, insisting that anyone found guilty should face justice without political or religious influence.
He acknowledged that while security challenges still exist in Edo State, the situation has been exaggerated by critics seeking to undermine his administration.
Okpebholo assured residents that security agencies remain on high alert to prevent criminals from gaining a foothold in the state.
He also called on citizens to choose lawful means of earning a living, stressing that engaging in crime is not worth risking one’s life.
During the church gathering, the governor requested prayers for President Bola Tinubu, describing the removal of the fuel subsidy as a difficult but necessary decision that has contributed to ongoing development projects in Edo State.
Clergy members at the conference commended Okpebholo for his commitment to governance and prayed for a successful tenure. They also praised the ongoing rehabilitation of the Benin–Sapele Road.
