Rufai Oseni backs Gov Okpebholo’s push for public execution of criminals

Media personality and Arise Television anchor, Rufai Oseni, has backed Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo’s plan to establish special criminal courts to fast-track the prosecution of kidnappers and armed bandits and their public execution.

Oseni, while speaking on his platform, said the proposed measure reflects the seriousness of the security challenges facing the country, although he noted that 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,” Oseni said.

He argued that the severity of punishment should correspond with the level of violence committed by criminal groups, noting that victims of kidnapping and banditry often suffer extreme brutality.

“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 said.

Oseni, however, stressed that any punishment must follow due process, including a fair trial and conviction before execution.

“My position is grounded in fair trial and due process up to the point of conviction, and then public execution for the crime,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo recently announced plans to establish special courts that would conclude criminal cases involving kidnappers and bandits within two to three weeks. He also said he would not hesitate to sign the death warrants of convicted offenders thereafter.

The proposal has also received support from former Edo State Governor and senator representing Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who said states have the constitutional authority to determine punishments for offences within their jurisdiction.

Speaking at a campaign rally Senator 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 added that kidnappers and bandits should face severe penalties for their crimes.

The proposed security measures are part of the Okpebholo administration’s SHINE Agenda, which identifies tackling kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and other violent crimes as key priorities across Edo State.