The Ondo State Government has proposed the death penalty for individuals convicted of kidnapping within the state. This significant decision, reached during a State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akure, underscores the government's commitment to ensuring peace, fostering infrastructure development, and strengthening grassroots governance across the state. Although the meeting took place on Wednesday, the information was publicly disseminated on Saturday.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, elaborated on the council's discussions regarding key security concerns. He stated that the council resolved to initiate the process of repealing existing laws pertaining to kidnapping. Mr. Ajulo emphasized that kidnapping and cultism have emerged as major threats to public safety and order. He believes that reinforcing relevant legal frameworks will effectively deter such crimes and enhance the overall security landscape in Ondo State. Proposals for these legislative actions, including the sentencing of convicted kidnappers to death, are expected to be transmitted to the House of Assembly soon for necessary legislative action.

Kidnapping has been on the rise in Ondo State, and despite some successes in arrests and rescues by security agencies, the tide has yet to be fully stemmed. In response, the state government has provided substantial logistical support to the state security network, Amotekun, and the state police command to aid their efforts against this scourge. The proposed legislation will be sent as a bill to the Ondo State House of Assembly, where it is anticipated to be debated and approved, given that the All Progressive Congress, the ruling party, holds an overwhelming majority in the state parliament.

Ondo State's move adds to the ongoing national debate concerning the death penalty and its effectiveness as a crime deterrent. Nigeria remains among the countries that have not abolished capital punishment, despite persistent calls from global human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.

In addition to the security measures, the Ondo State government also approved other significant development initiatives during the Executive Council meeting. These include the provision and installation of 6,000 standalone solar streetlights. These streetlights will be distributed equally across the three senatorial districts of the state—Ondo North, Ondo Central, and Ondo South—with each district receiving 2,000 units. This initiative aims to improve public lighting infrastructure and enhance safety for citizens.

Furthermore, Mr. Abiola Olawoye, Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, announced that the Executive Council gave its approval for the construction of two major dualized carriageways in the state, signaling a broader commitment to enhancing the state's transportation infrastructure.