The Ondo State Government has restated its dedication to peace, infrastructure development, and strengthening grassroots governance across the state.
This assurance was given during a press briefing following the State Executive Council meeting, presided over by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in Akure.
Addressing journalists, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, said the Council deliberated on security challenges and resolved to initiate the repeal of certain laws related to kidnapping in the state.
Ajulo noted that kidnapping and cultism have emerged as serious threats to public safety, adding that enhancing the legal framework would serve as a deterrent and improve the security architecture. He revealed that proposals would soon be sent to the House of Assembly, including provisions for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, announced the approval of two major dual carriageway road projects.
The first is a 24.75-kilometre dual carriageway stretching from Ugbeyin Junction through Okitipupa Market, OAUSTECH, Ugbonla Junction to Igbokoda Jetty. The project will feature a 9.3-metre wide carriageway on each side, a 1.2-metre median, concrete drains, pedestrian walkways, asphaltic shoulders in undeveloped areas, a 3-metre utility corridor, and solar-powered streetlights along the median. The total right of way is 40 metres.
The second project is a 6.7-kilometre dual carriageway from Supare Junction through Akungba to the Ikare Road in the Akoko area. It will have similar specifications and is designed to withstand heavy vehicular traffic, complete with reinforced pavement and traffic management systems.
In addition, the Council approved the provision and installation of 6,000 standalone solar-powered streetlights—2,000 each for the Ondo North, Central, and South senatorial districts—as part of efforts to enhance public safety and night-time visibility.
On the health front, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, said the state had adopted a research-based strategy to combat the spread of Lassa fever. He cited improvements in testing, referrals, and surveillance that have helped in managing and controlling the disease.
In the area of traditional institutions, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, announced the appointment of warrant chiefs to commence the selection process for a new Olu-Oke of Okeigbo in the Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area. This follows a court ruling that nullified the appointment of the late Babajide Lawrence Oluwole prior to his passing.
The Council also approved a change in the title of the Yasere of Ilepete (Ugbo) to Yasere of Oriretan in Ilaje Local Government Area, following objections raised by community stakeholders.
Comrade Taiwo emphasized that the Aiyedatiwa administration recognizes traditional rulers as vital partners in governance due to their strong ties to the grassroots.
