Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has vowed to sign the death warrants of four convicted kidnappers if they fail to appeal their sentences within 30 days.

Okpebholo made the declaration on Friday while recounting his administration’s efforts to tackle kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry in Ekpoma.

The four defendants were sentenced to death by the Edo State Special Criminal Court on September 29 over the abduction of a woman at the vegetable market along Airport Road, Benin City.

The governor said insecurity was a major concern when he assumed office, adding that he prioritised tackling the problem after discussing it with President Bola Tinubu, who encouraged him to proceed.

He recalled directing the Commissioner of Police to ensure the suspects were arrested following the attack.

“When the kidnappers attacked the vegetable market area, I told the commissioner of Police that I wanted them arrested without delay,” he said.

Okpebholo said the suspects had been sentenced to death and expressed hope that they would not appeal the judgment.

“If within 30 days they don’t appeal, I will execute,” he added.

The governor also disclosed that he consulted prominent traditional rulers across Edo State before launching his administration’s campaign against kidnapping and cultism.

According to him, he warned the traditional rulers against pleading on behalf of anyone involved in criminal activities.

“I told them not to come begging me because I will not listen,” he said.

Okpebholo further recounted what he described as unusual incidents involving birds following his administration’s demolition of a building allegedly linked to a cult group.

“A black bird died in my office when I demolished their building. A vulture also died in my bed while I was contesting for governorship,” he added.

Earlier, the founder of God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry, Ehijele Umuahia, urged members of his congregation to vote for Okpebholo and his preferred candidates in the 2027 general elections.

Citing Proverbs 29:2, Umuahia called on Christians to complement their prayers for the governor with active participation in the electoral process, urging them to turn out in large numbers to support Okpebholo and the candidates he backs.

The cleric described the governor as a humble man whose commitment to God predated his emergence as governor.

“I have known him for over 15 years, dating back to the days of Chief Tony Anenih, of blessed memory.

“Whenever Anenih came to visit me, he was one of those, who accompanied him. That was how we came to know each other,” he said.

Umuahia added that Okpebholo had maintained his devotion to God despite his demanding schedule before becoming governor.