ONDO GOVT APPROVES DEATH PENALTY FOR KIDNAPPERS, UNVEILS MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
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By: Sefiu Ajape
As part of decisive efforts to tackle the growing menace of abductions and violent crimes in Ondo State, the State Executive Council has approved the death penalty by hanging for individuals convicted of kidnapping.
This was disclosed by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Kayode Ajulo, after a Council meeting chaired by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in Akure.
Ajulo stated that the move is one of several tough measures aimed at eradicating kidnapping and related crimes across the state. He noted that kidnapping and cultism have become major threats to public safety, prompting the need for stronger legal deterrents.
He revealed that the Council discussed key security matters and resolved to begin the process of amending relevant laws on kidnapping. Proposals for legislative action, including death sentences for convicted kidnappers, will soon be forwarded to the State House of Assembly. Additionally, any property used by kidnappers as hideouts or operational bases will be subject to demolition.
Ajulo emphasized that these initiatives are designed to restore peace, drive infrastructure development, and strengthen grassroots governance across Ondo State.
On infrastructure, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, announced the Council’s approval of two major dual carriageway road projects.
One of the projects will cover a 24.75-kilometre stretch from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market, OAUSTECH, Ugbonla Junction, and end at the Igbokoda Jetty. The road will feature wide lanes, a median, concrete-lined drains, pedestrian walkways, asphalt shoulders, a utility corridor, solar-powered streetlights, and modern traffic lights at key junctions.
The second project, a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway, will run from Supare Junction through Akungba to Ikare Road in the Akoko region, following similar construction standards and designed to handle heavy vehicular traffic.
In addition, Olawoye revealed that the Executive Council has approved the installation of 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights across the state’s three senatorial districts, with each district receiving 2,000 units. This is part of efforts to improve safety and public lighting infrastructure statewide.
In the health sector, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, highlighted the government’s renewed strategy to combat Lassa fever. He noted that a new research-driven approach has been adopted, which has already enhanced testing, referrals, and surveillance for more effective disease control.
Regarding traditional institutions, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, announced the appointment of Warrant Chiefs to commence the selection process for a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area. The move follows a court ruling that nullified the previous appointment of the late Babajide Lawrence Oluwole.
The Council also approved a change in title from Yasere of Ilepepe (Ugbo) to Yeyere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government Area, following concerns raised by stakeholders in the community.
Taiwo reiterated that the Aiyedatiwa administration views traditional rulers as essential partners in governance due to their strong connection with the grassroots.
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