Kogi Approves Death Penalty for Kidnappers, Accomplices

Following the incessant kidnapping incidents in Kogi State, the state Executive Council has approved death penalty for kidnapping and other related criminal activities in the state. This was contained in a proposed executive bill seeking to enact a law which was received during weekly meeting, criminalizing kidnapping and death sentence by hanging.

The State Commissioner of Information, Hajia Zainab Okino, who disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Lokoja, stated that the development was in response to the alarming rate of kidnapping in the state in recent times.

Okino explained that there was urgent need to enact a law that would make kidnapping and other matters connected with the offence punishable by death or hanging.

The Commissioner stated that the punishment will serve as a check and prevent kogi State from being a den of kidnappers and other related criminal activities.

The proposed bill if signed to law, is also seeking a life sentence without an option of fine for any person found guilty of aiding and abetting Kidnapping and adoption as well as 30 years imprisonment without option of fine for any person who attempts to commit act of kidnapping in Kogi State.

In related development, the state executive council also approved the establishment of kogi State Television Station.



Hajia Zainab hinted that the bill allows the establishment of Kogi Television project, adding that the project is expected to be completed in nine months.