Ondo Govt Mulls Death Penalty For Kidnappers

Ondo State government has said it is considering enacting laws that would sentence convicted kidnappers to death, reiterating its commitment to ensure peace, infrastructure development and grassroots governance across all parts of the state.

The state government dropped the hint during a press briefing held after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akure.

The attorney-general and commissioner for justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN) while addressing the media, said the council discussed key security concerns and resolved to begin the process of repealing certain laws relating to kidnapping in the state.

Ajulo noted that kidnapping and cultism had become major threats to safety and public order, adding that strengthening relevant legal frameworks would help deter such crimes and improve the overall security landscape.

He disclosed that proposals would soon be transmitted to the House of Assembly for necessary legislative action, including sentencing convicted kidnappers to death.

Also speaking, the special adviser to the governor on infrastructure, lands and housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, said the State Executive Council approved the construction of two major dual-carriageway road projects.

The first is the construction of a 24.75-kilometre dual carriageway from Ugbeyin Junction – Okitipupa Market – OAUSTECH – Ugbonla Junction – Igbokoda Jetty.

The road will feature a 9.3-metre wide carriageway on both sides, a 1.2-metre median, concrete line drains, walkways, asphaltic shoulders in undeveloped areas, a 3-metre utility area, and solar-powered streetlights along the median.

The entire road corridor is 28 metres wide, with a total right of way of 40 metres. It will also include modern traffic lights at critical intersections and is designed to carry heavy traffic with a reinforced pavement structure.