By Dayo Johnson, Akure

In a decisive move to curb the rising wave of insecurity, the Ondo State Government has approved the death penalty for anyone convicted of kidnapping within the state.

The announcement was made by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, while briefing journalists after the weekly State Executive Council meeting held in Akure. Ajulo noted that the Council deliberated extensively on worsening security issues and resolved to repeal and strengthen existing laws to address kidnapping and cult-related offences.

He revealed that the proposal, which includes capital punishment for kidnappers, would be forwarded to the State House of Assembly for necessary legislative action. The Council also agreed that properties used as hideouts or operational bases by kidnappers would be demolished to deter the growing threat.

“Kidnapping and cultism have become a menace to the peace and safety of residents. We are committed to restoring law and order through robust legal frameworks,” Ajulo said.

Also at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, announced the approval of two major dual carriageway road projects across the state.

The first project is a 24.75-kilometre dual carriageway stretching from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market, OAUSTECH, Ugbonla Junction, and ending at the Igbokoda Jetty. Features include:

9.3-metre wide dual carriageways

1.2-metre median

Walkways, concrete line drains, and solar-powered streetlights

A 3-metre utility zone and modern traffic light installations

The second project involves a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway linking Supare Junction to the Akungba-Ikare Road in the Akoko area, built to similar specifications and durability standards.

Olawoye further disclosed that the Council approved the provision and installation of 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights, with an equal distribution of 2,000 units across Ondo North, Central, and South senatorial districts.

In the health sector, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, announced a new research-driven strategy to combat diseases in the state. He highlighted recent progress in disease testing, case referrals, and surveillance as key achievements of the revised approach.

On traditional institutions, the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, said the state had appointed warrant chiefs to commence the selection of a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area. This follows a court ruling that nullified the previous appointment of the late Babajide Lawrence Oluwole.

The Council also approved the renaming of the Yasere of Ilepepe (Ugbo) chieftaincy title to Yeyere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government Area, in response to objections from community stakeholders.

With these wide-ranging decisions, the Ondo State Government reiterated its commitment to addressing insecurity, improving infrastructure, enhancing public health, and resolving traditional leadership concerns for the benefit of all residents.