The Ondo State Government has taken a decisive step to tackle rising insecurity by proposing the death penalty for convicted kidnappers.
This major security announcement was made during a press briefing following the State Executive Council meeting held in Akure and presided over by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, told journalists that kidnapping and cultism have become serious threats to public safety. To address this, the Council resolved to begin the process of repealing outdated laws and strengthening the legal framework to include the death sentence for kidnapping.
Ajulo said proposals would soon be forwarded to the State House of Assembly for legislative approval. According to him, this firm approach is necessary to restore peace and deter violent crimes.
In a boost to infrastructure and safety, the Council also approved the construction of two major dual carriageway roads:
A 24.75-kilometre road from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market, OAUSTECH, Ugbonla Junction, to Igbokoda Jetty.
A 6.7-kilometre road from Supare Junction through Akungba to Ikare in Akoko area.
Both roads will have 9.3-metre wide dual carriageways, 1.2-metre medians, walkways, reinforced concrete drains, utility areas, and solar-powered streetlights.
Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, said the projects are designed to withstand heavy vehicular movement and will feature modern traffic management systems.
Additionally, the government approved the installation of 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights—with 2,000 lights each to be deployed across the three senatorial districts—to enhance public lighting and security.
On the health front, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, disclosed that a new research-based strategy is being adopted to combat Lassa fever. He said recent improvements in testing and surveillance have already yielded encouraging results.
Meanwhile, in traditional governance matters, the Council approved the appointment of warrant chiefs to facilitate the selection of a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo following a court ruling that nullified the previous appointment.
It also approved a name change for the Yasere of Ilepete (Ugbo) chieftaincy to Yasere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government, in response to community concerns.
Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, said these moves reflect the administration’s respect for traditional institutions and their importance in grassroots development.
