By Our Reporter
Ondo State Government has approved the death penalty for convicted kidnappers as part of sweeping measures to tackle rising insecurity, reaffirming its resolve to ensure peace, development, and grassroots governance across the state.
The decision was announced during a press briefing held after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in Akure.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, disclosed that the Council resolved to commence the process of repealing and amending relevant laws on kidnapping and cultism.
He said these crimes have become serious threats to public safety and order, necessitating stronger legal deterrents.
He added that proposals would soon be transmitted to the State House of Assembly, including a provision for capital punishment for convicted kidnappers.
In a bold push for infrastructure development, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, revealed the Council’s approval of two major dual carriageway road projects.
One spans 24.75 kilometres from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market and OAUSTECH to Igbokoda Jetty, featuring dual 9.3-metre wide carriageways, a 1.2-metre median, concrete drains, walkways, solar-powered streetlights, and a 40-metre right of way designed to withstand heavy traffic.
The second road, a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway from Supare Junction to the Akungba–Ikare Road in the Akoko area, will feature similar specifications including traffic management systems and heavy-duty pavement.
Further bolstering its commitment to public safety, the government also approved the provision and installation of 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights across the state’s three senatorial districts, with 2,000 allocated to each zone.
Olawoye said this initiative aims to enhance night-time visibility and security.
In the health sector, the Special Adviser on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, outlined new strategies to eliminate Lassa fever in the state, noting that a research-driven approach has been adopted.
He highlighted significant progress in testing, referrals, and disease surveillance, which are already yielding positive results.
On traditional institutions, Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Bola Taiwo, announced the appointment of warrant chiefs to initiate the selection process for a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo, following a court judgment nullifying the appointment of the late Babajide Lawrence Oluwole.
The Council also approved a name change for the Yasere of Ilepepe (Ugbo) chieftaincy to Yeyere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government Area after receiving and considering stakeholder concerns.
Taiwo stressed that the Aiyedatiwa-led administration remains committed to recognising traditional rulers as vital partners in governance, particularly in ensuring peace and representation at the grassroots level.
