Ondo State Moves to Enforce Death Penalty for Kidnapping, Approves Massive Infrastructure, Health, and Traditional Leadership Reforms
The Ondo State Government has announced plans to introduce stringent legal measures, including the death penalty, for convicted kidnappers.
This was made known by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), during a media briefing following the State Executive Council meeting held in Akure and presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
According to Dr. Ajulo, proposals for a new legal framework targeting kidnappers will soon be submitted to the State House of Assembly. He stated that the move is part of broader efforts to curb insecurity, especially the rising threats of kidnapping and cultism.
The Council, he added, has resolved to amend or repeal existing laws related to kidnapping in order to strengthen deterrence and ensure public safety across the state.
Reinforcing the state’s development agenda, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, revealed that the Executive Council approved two major dual carriageway road projects.
The first is a 24.75-kilometre dual carriageway that will run from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market, OAUSTECH, and Ugbonla Junction to the Igbokoda Jetty.
This road will feature dual 9.3-metre wide lanes, a 1.2-metre central median, concrete-lined drainage, pedestrian walkways, asphalt shoulders in undeveloped zones, a 3-metre utility corridor, and solar-powered streetlights positioned along the median.
The total corridor width is 28 metres with a 40-metre right of way. Additionally, the road will include modern traffic signals at key intersections and a reinforced pavement structure to withstand heavy vehicular load.
The second approved project is a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway stretching from Supare Junction to Akungba and Ikare in the Akoko region. This road will have similar specifications and is designed to improve transportation flow and support economic activities in the area.
In a further push for improved public lighting, Olawoye announced that 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights will be installed across the three senatorial districts—2,000 units each in Ondo North, Ondo Central, and Ondo South.
In the health sector, Professor Simidele Odimayo, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, spoke about ongoing efforts to combat Lassa fever. He stated that the state has adopted a research-driven strategy, resulting in improved testing, patient referrals, and disease surveillance, all contributing to better management of the illness.
On matters concerning traditional institutions, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, announced the appointment of warrant chiefs to initiate the selection process for a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area. This decision follows a recent court judgment that nullified the previous appointment of the late Babajide Lawrence Oluwole.
In a related development, the Council approved a change in title for the Yasere of Ilepepe (Ugbo) chieftaincy, which will now be known as the Yeyere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government. The adjustment follows community consultations and objections raised by key stakeholders.
Comrade Taiwo reaffirmed the Aiyedatiwa administration’s recognition of traditional rulers as vital allies in governance due to their direct connection with grassroots communities.
With these resolutions, the Ondo State Government reiterated its unwavering commitment to enhancing peace, strengthening infrastructure, promoting health, and deepening engagement with traditional institutions.
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