Edo State Cracks Down on Kidnapping: Death Sentence Approved, Electricity Law Amended

 

The Edo State House of Assembly has taken a bold step in the fight against kidnapping by passing the State Kidnapping Prohibition Law 2025, which now prescribes the death penalty for offenders.

On Tuesday, the House reviewed and amended the 2013 anti-kidnapping law, which had previously imposed life imprisonment and confiscation of property used in the crime. The new amendment introduces a stiffer penalty—a death sentence—alongside the seizure of assets linked to kidnapping activities.

The bill’s passage followed a motion by Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian, which was seconded by Minority Leader Henry Okaka, representing Owan East. The House then resolved into a committee of the whole to deliberate on the bill clause by clause before its approval.

 

In addition to the kidnapping law, the Edo Assembly also repealed the Edo State Electricity Law 2022 and passed a bill to establish the Edo State Electricity Market, the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, and the Edo Electrification Agency. This move is expected to streamline electricity governance and enhance power distribution across the state.

 

Meanwhile, the House confirmed Mrs. Kenny Okojie as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, further solidifying efforts to improve healthcare services in the state.

 

With these legislative actions, the Edo Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to security, economic development, and public welfare.