Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has formally written to the Chief Judge of Edo State requesting the constitution of a Special Court for the trial of kidnappers and cultists in the state . The move follows his earlier declaration that his administration would establish a special court to prosecute criminal elements .
Governor Okpebholo had previously vowed to sign execution warrants for convicted kidnappers and cultists, declaring that his government would take a tough stance on insecurity . In a recent statement, he said, “The security agencies are working. We are going to set up a special court to try kidnappers and cultists. I will sign your execution by hanging” .
The request to the Chief Judge is a significant step toward implementing this promise, as the state moves to expedite the trial and punishment of individuals involved in kidnapping, cult-related killings, and armed robbery. The proposed special court is expected to handle cases swiftly and ensure that convicted criminals face the full weight of the law.
The Governor’s action aligns with the efforts of the Edo State Security Network, which recently arrested 73 suspects for various crimes, including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and illegal possession of firearms . The state government has also demolished properties linked to criminal activities, including a building in Uromi allegedly used for cult initiation, and another in Benin City used by cultists to terrorise residents .
The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal infrastructures and ensuring that those who aid and abet crime face the full consequences of the law.