Edo Kidnapping: Okpebholo Gives Convicts 30-Day Ultimatum
BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified his administration’s campaign against kidnapping, cultism and violent crimes, declaring that four convicted kidnappers 
could face execution if they fail to challenge their death sentences within the stipulated 30-day appeal period.
The governor’s warning follows the September 29, 2026, judgment of an Edo State Special Criminal Court, which sentenced four individuals to death for their involvement in the abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City. The development has brought renewed attention to the government’s determination to confront criminal activities threatening public safety and economic activities across the state.
Speaking during a fellowship at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry in Ekpoma, Okpebholo maintained that his administration would not tolerate kidnapping and other violent offences. He explained that insecurity was among the most serious challenges confronting Edo State when he assumed office, prompting his government to strengthen cooperation with security agencies and prioritise the protection of residents.
According to the governor, the kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market attracted his immediate attention, leading him to contact President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and subsequently direct the Commissioner of Police to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible. He disclosed that the security operation eventually resulted in arrests and the prosecution of the suspects, culminating in their conviction.
Okpebholo expressed his readiness to sign the necessary death warrants should the convicted individuals fail to exercise their legal right of appeal within the prescribed period. He further suggested that any appeal would only delay the enforcement of the judgment, although the convicts retain their rights under the judicial process and any execution would remain subject to applicable legal requirements.
Beyond the death sentences, the governor revealed that his administration had engaged prominent traditional rulers across Edo State before launching its offensive against kidnapping and cult-related violence. He said the traditional institutions were specifically warned against seeking preferential treatment or intervening on behalf of individuals implicated in serious criminal activities.
The governor also recalled incidents he associated with spiritual forces following the demolition of a building allegedly connected to a cult group. He maintained that such experiences would not discourage his administration from pursuing its security objectives, stressing his commitment to confronting criminal networks and restoring public confidence in the state’s security architecture.
Meanwhile, the founder of God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, Apostle Ehijele Umuahia, commended Okpebholo’s religious commitment and leadership, urging Christians to combine prayers with active participation in the democratic process. The governor’s latest declaration has placed renewed attention on the enforcement of criminal judgments, the constitutional rights of condemned prisoners and the broader challenge of achieving lasting security in Edo State.
