Nigerian gov approves death penalty for informants, bandits, others

Zamfara State Government has approved death penalty for anyone convicted for banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, cultism, or serving as a bandits’ informant in the state.

The Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle made this revelation via a broadcast on Tuesday morning.

According to the Governor, the new legislation is a measure adopted by his government to address the act of terrorism experienced in the state and the region of northwest.

The Governor said many informants who have been a major roadblock in the fight against insecurity have been arrested and are currently being questioned before being prosecuted in accordance with the fullest extent of the law.

In Matawalle’s words:

“On the 28th of June this year, I assented to the bill on Prohibition and Punishment for Banditry, Cattle Rustling, Cultism, Kidnapping and Other Incidental Offences, 2022.

“The law provides a legal instrument for prosecuting banditry-related offenders.

“Based on the new law, anyone found guilty of banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, cultism, or serving as a bandits’ informant is subject to the death penalty.

“Similarly, anyone found guilty of supporting in any manner the aforementioned offences faces a sentence of life in prison, 20 years in jail, or ten years in prison, without the option of a fine.”