Mirian Gom 
Adams Oshiomhole
AUCHI, Nigeria – Former Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole has endorsed the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits in Edo State, backing Governor Monday Okpebholo’s plan to impose capital punishment on offenders.
Oshiomhole spoke during the launch of the Edo North Senatorial District local government election campaign in Auchi on Saturday.
The senator representing Edo North said states have the constitutional authority to enact laws addressing state offences.
“I stand here to completely endorse the declaration by the governor of Edo State that we are in a federation where every state has the right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. So, kidnappers and bandits will be punished by death through firing squad,” Oshiomhole said.
He also renewed his support for state police, arguing that decentralised policing would strengthen efforts to combat insecurity.
Governor Okpebholo said his administration remains focused on development projects and improving living conditions across the state.
“We have embarked on massive infrastructural development in the state, including roads, schools, markets and others. These achievements were not there in the past, but this administration has made them possible,” the governor said.
Okpebholo praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, saying increased allocations have enabled states to finance development projects.
“The removal of fuel subsidies has provided more funds for governors across the country to develop their states,” he said.
The governor also urged party supporters to mobilise voters ahead of the local government election and work toward delivering 2.5 million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh described the election as an important step toward the next general election and urged candidates to prioritise grassroots development.
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Korede Abdullah 
Otamere Gladness