Death Penalty Controversy: Oshiomhole Blasts Judiciary Over Leniency

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has strongly criticized the reduction of prison sentences for capital offences.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

During Wednesday’s Senate discussion on national security, Oshiomhole argued that such judicial decisions weaken the rule of law and erode public trust in the justice system.

He described it as unacceptable for judges to replace death sentences mandated by law with 20-year imprisonment terms, especially in cases involving armed robbery, kidnapping, or terrorism that result in fatalities.

Oshiomhole specifically referenced a recent ruling by a Federal High Court in Abuja involving a kingpin of the Ansaru terrorist group.

“How can someone sentenced to death end up serving only twenty years? That is not acceptable,” he stated emphatically.

The former labour leader accused some judges of issuing “sentimental or compromised judgments” that contravene laws passed by the National Assembly. He insisted that judicial officers must interpret and apply the law strictly as enacted.

“If the law prescribes the death penalty for terrorism convictions, no judge has the authority to hand down a lesser sentence. Only after the law is duly implemented can the President, if warranted, decide to commute or reduce the sentence,” Oshiomhole said.

He expressed frustration that the tireless efforts of security agencies and prosecutors to secure convictions are often undermined by inconsistent or lenient court rulings.

“It is troubling that after all the work and risks security agencies take to ensure due process, we still see conflicting judgments across various high courts,” he said.

Oshiomhole cited an example where a convicted terrorist received a 20-year sentence despite the law mandating the death penalty, warning that such leniency emboldens criminals and diminishes confidence in the justice system.

However, he also highlighted the need for fairness, noting cases where individuals acting in self-defence—such as farmers protecting their land—face harsh sentences, while the actual aggressors escape justice.

“For instance, someone who allegedly kills an intruder on their farm may face the death penalty, yet those who attack and kill farmers often go unpunished,” he lamented.

The senator urged the federal government and judiciary to reform sentencing practices to ensure justice is consistent and equitable.

“These are issues we must address to prevent misunderstanding and ensure national challenges are met with clarity and fairness,” he concluded.