Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos state has signed a new bill into law which provides capital punishment for kidnappers.
The anti-kidnapping bill was recently passed by the State House of Assembly.
The law imposes a penalty of life imprisonment on kidnapping for ransom, as well as death penalty for kidnappers if a victim dies in the course of kdnap.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at the Lagos House, Ikeja, Ambode said the spate of kidnapping in the state required decisive action from government.
“Security is of utmost importance to our administration and we are confident that this law will serve as a deterrent to anybody who may desire to engage in this wicked act within the boundaries of Lagos.
“While we use this law to address the challenge and punish the criminals, we are also putting in place appropriate measures, particularly in our schools and other vulnerable targets, to prevent security breaches.”
Ambode assured residents that the justice system would be activated to execute the anti-kidnapping law to the letter.
