Photos: ‘I’ll Sign Your Death Warrant’ – Edo Gov Okpebholo Sparks Outrage

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to kidnappers, cultists and other criminal elements operating in the state, declaring that his administration will pursue swift prosecution and enforce the full weight of the law against anyone found guilty.

According to Ireporter Online, the governor made the remarks on Thursday while addressing journalists during the parade of suspected criminals at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City.

As part of efforts to encourage law enforcement personnel, Okpebholo presented a cash reward of ₦10 million to police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect connected to the kidnapping incident that occurred at the Vegetable Market on Sunday.

The governor disclosed plans to establish a special court dedicated to handling cases involving kidnapping and cult-related offences, with the aim of ensuring speedy trials. He stated that proceedings in such cases would be concluded within two weeks, emphasizing that convicted offenders would face the legal consequences prescribed by law. He also warned criminals against underestimating his administration’s determination to tackle insecurity.

Speaking on the recent Vegetable Market kidnapping, Okpebholo revealed that he immediately instructed the Commissioner of Police to track down those responsible. He noted that security operatives successfully arrested one suspect, neutralised another during the operation, while two additional suspects are still being pursued.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to making Edo State an unfavourable environment for criminals and those who support them, insisting that anyone involved in criminal activities would be apprehended and brought to justice. He stressed that security agencies are working tirelessly to safeguard residents and eliminate criminal networks across the state.

Okpebholo also appealed to citizens, particularly young people, to avoid engaging in unlawful activities, urging them to pursue legitimate means of livelihood rather than risk severe legal consequences.

Commenting on the national security situation, the governor defended the Federal Government’s efforts, stating that the improvements being witnessed were evidence of the support being provided by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to security agencies. He argued that adequate funding and backing from the presidency were yielding positive results in the fight against crime.

Meanwhile, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, confirmed that investigations into the kidnapping case remain ongoing and assured residents that efforts have been intensified to apprehend the remaining suspects.

Items recovered from the arrested suspect include a red Lexus RX 350 bearing registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle and ₦2.25 million in cash believed to be proceeds of criminal activities.

Agbonika expressed appreciation to Governor Okpebholo for his continued support to the command and also acknowledged the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for his leadership and guidance. He reiterated the command’s resolve to protect lives and property while urging members of the public to continue providing credible information that would aid security operations across the state.