Okpebholo vows to sign death warrants of convicted kidnappers
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, says he will sign the death warrants of four convicted kidnappers if they fail to appeal their sentences within 30 da Read More:…
Kidnapping for ransom has been a persistent security challenge across Nigeria, with Edo State recording notable cases in recent years, including abductions linked to markets and commercial areas in Benin City. Under Nigerian law, death sentences handed down by courts must be formally authorised by a state governor through a signed death warrant before execution can proceed, a step many governors have historically been reluctant to take, leaving convicts on death row for extended periods.
The coverage centres on Governor Monday Okpebholo's pledge to sign the death warrants of four individuals convicted in the Vegetable Market, Airport Road kidnapping case in Benin City, should they not appeal their sentences within a 30-day window. Premium Times adds that the governor linked this stance to his broader security priorities since taking office, noting he raised the insecurity concern with President Bola Tinubu, who reportedly encouraged him to act. The outlets largely agree on the core details — the four convicts, the specific case, and the 30-day appeal deadline — while specifics such as the exact sentencing date, the convicts' identities, and any response from their legal representatives have not been detailed in the reports.