OGUN GOVT CONSIDERS DEATH PENALTY AS DETERRENT TO HEINOUS CRIMES
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The Ogun State Government is actively contemplating the signing of death warrants for condemned criminals as part of efforts to curb rising criminal activities, including ritual killings, kidnapping, and cultism, in the state. This revelation was made by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), following a visit to the Ibara Correctional Centre in Abeokuta on Friday.
During the visit, Ogungbade, who was escorted by officials from the Centre, expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violent crimes. He emphasized that the government is prepared to take a tough stance by fully enforcing the law, particularly in the cases of individuals sentenced to death by competent courts.
“We are looking seriously at a means of sending a clear message that Ogun State is not a place where heinous crimes will go unpunished,” Ogungbade stated. He noted that the law currently stipulates the death penalty for crimes such as murder, but the implementation of this punishment has been rare in recent years. This, he believes, has contributed to the rise in criminal activities, as perpetrators often perceive a lack of consequence for their actions.
Ogungbade acknowledged the efforts of security agencies in addressing crime but pointed out that the increase in ritual killings, in particular, has raised serious alarm. He suggested that the public’s belief that there are no serious repercussions for such crimes is a key factor behind their persistence.
The Attorney General assured that while the government is committed to following the law, it will do so in a systematic and responsible manner. “We will not be reckless in implementing the death penalty. It will only be pursued in deserving cases, after the offenders have undergone fair trials and exhausted all appeals,” he explained. He also reiterated that the governor, who took an oath to uphold the rule of law, would not shy away from carrying out this constitutional duty.
Ogungbade also highlighted that the current administration has taken steps to reduce the number of death sentences, converting some to life imprisonment or offering fixed terms for those serving lengthy sentences. However, he emphasized that punishment must still serve as a strong deterrent to potential criminals.
While Ogungbade did not specify a timeline for the potential signing of death warrants, he made it clear that the government would proceed with caution and responsibility to ensure that justice is served and that crime rates in the state are effectively reduced.
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