The Edo State House of Assembly has passed a bill amending the Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law of 2013 during its second reading. The bill prescribes the death penalty for kidnappers and mandates the confiscation and demolition of properties used in the commission of kidnapping.
Majority Leader, Hon. Charity Aiguobarueghian, emphasized the necessity of the bill, noting that kidnapping has escalated into a significant issue in the state. He urged his colleagues to support the passage of the executive bill, describing kidnapping as a heinous crime that has claimed many innocent lives and caused immense suffering to families and communities.
Other lawmakers reinforced their arguments in favor of the death penalty by referencing religious texts and constitutional sources. They highlighted the severity of kidnapping, particularly the fact that kidnappers often demand ransoms and still kill their victims. The lawmakers argued that the death penalty could serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.
The bill reflects the Assembly’s commitment to tackling the rising menace of kidnapping and ensuring the safety and security of Edo State residents.
