The Edo State House of Assembly has made significant legal reforms by passing the State Kidnapping Prohibition Law 2025, which introduces the death penalty for convicted kidnappers.
This development occurred during a session on Tuesday, where the majority leader, Charity Aiguobarueghian, initiated a motion for the assembly to review the bill clause-by-clause. The motion received support from the minority leader, Henry Okaka, who represents Owan East.
In this latest version of the law, the assembly has amended the previous 2013 legislation, which stipulated life imprisonment and the confiscation of assets used in kidnapping.
The newly passed law imposes a more severe penalty, emphasizing a death sentence and the continued confiscation of property involved in the crime.
In addition to the kidnapping law, the assembly has also approved a bill to repeal the Edo State Electricity Law of 2022. This new legislation aims to establish an electricity market, create the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, and form the Edo Electrification Agency to enhance the state’s energy framework.
Furthermore, the House confirmed Mrs. Kenny Okojie as the chairman of the governing board for the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, marking a pivotal step in state healthcare leadership.
