Popular media personality and Arise Television anchor, Rufai Oseni, has expressed support for Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo’s proposal to establish special criminal courts to speed up the prosecution of kidnappers and armed bandits, while endorsing public execution for those convicted after due process.
Speaking on his platform, Oseni said the governor’s proposal reflects the gravity of Nigeria’s worsening security situation, although he acknowledged that some aspects of the policy may require further refinement.
“At this point in time, yes, we may have to fine-tune it, but I largely agree with Governor Okpebholo and Senator Adams Oshiomhole. This matter is more than being careful,” he said.
According to Oseni, the brutality often associated with kidnapping and banditry calls for stronger punitive measures capable of deterring violent crimes.
“When they kill people, they do so publicly. It gets to the point you will need public execution because of the nature of these crimes,” he stated.
He, however, emphasized that capital punishment must only be carried out after strict adherence to constitutional safeguards, including a fair trial, conviction by a competent court and compliance with due process.
“My position is grounded in fair trial and due process up to the point of conviction, and then public execution for the crime,” Oseni added.
Governor Okpebholo recently announced plans to establish special criminal courts that would conclude kidnapping and banditry cases within two to three weeks. The governor also declared that he would not hesitate to sign the death warrants of offenders lawfully convicted under the applicable laws.
The proposal has also received the backing of former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who argued that states have the constitutional authority to prescribe punishments for offences created under their respective laws.
Speaking at a political rally, Oshiomhole said, “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.”
He maintained that kidnappers and armed bandits deserve severe punishment in view of the devastating impact of their activities on society.
The proposed measures form part of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, under which tackling kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and other violent crimes remains a major priority aimed at restoring security and protecting lives and property across Edo State.
