Breaking: Ondo govt declares war on kidnappers, specify death penalty

June 21, 2025

By Adedoja Adesoji

The Ondo State Government has unveiled a tough stance against kidnappers, announcing that those found guilty will face the death penalty by hanging.

This decision was made public by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, after a State Executive Council meeting in Akure.

“We should know that we have investors coming to the state and as part of measures is to ensure we encourage them that they and their investment are safe,” Ajulo said, explaining the rationale behind the decision.

He emphasized that the governor is committed to following due process, stating, “The governor, being a lover of rule of law, would not go the way it’s being done in other states, without following necessary court due process.”

The government also plans to demolish buildings and facilities used by kidnappers after obtaining court orders.

Ajulo noted that the anti-kidnapping law would be reviewed by the Ondo State House of Assembly to prescribe the death penalty for kidnappers.

The government expressed concern over the rise of cultism in the state and vowed to take decisive action.

Other key decisions made at the council meeting include the installation of 6,000 solar-powered street lights across the state’s three senatorial districts.

The government also approved the construction of several major roads, including a 24.75km dual carriageway from Okitipupa to Igbokoda Jetty and a 6.7km dual carriageway from Supare Junction to Akungba-Ikare road.