Oshiomhole Backs Firing Squad For Bandits, Criminals

Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has thrown his weight behind the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits put forward by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, declaring that such offenders deserve to face execution by firing squad under state law.

According to reports, Oshiomhole made the remarks during 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. He commended the Okpebholo administration for restoring law and order in the state, insisting that only those engaged in criminal activities should have reason to fear the government.

The former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) argued that Nigeria’s federal structure empowers states to enact laws prescribing punishments for offences within their jurisdiction. He said the governor’s proposal to impose the death penalty by firing squad on kidnappers and bandits had his full support.

Oshiomhole also renewed his advocacy for the establishment of state police, maintaining that such a security framework would strengthen the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in addressing the country’s security challenges.

Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Edo residents through sustained development initiatives. He noted that several infrastructure projects, including roads, schools, markets and other public facilities, were currently being executed across the state to enhance the quality of life of the people.

The governor maintained that the ongoing projects reflected the achievements of his administration, adding that such levels of development were absent in previous years.

He also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, describing the policy as one that had significantly increased financial allocations to state governments. According to him, the additional funds had enabled the Edo State Government to embark on extensive infrastructure development, including road construction, educational facilities and other critical projects.

Okpebholo further stated that the campaign rally provided an opportunity to officially present APC candidates to the electorate ahead of the forthcoming local government elections. He urged party members and supporters to intensify grassroots mobilisation, work towards securing victory for the party’s candidates, and contribute to delivering 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

The governor equally applauded the completion of the rehabilitation of the Auchi-Ekpoma-Benin Road, describing it as one of the notable accomplishments of the Tinubu administration, while encouraging party faithful to remain committed to the APC’s electoral success.