The Ondo State Government has approved the death penalty for anyone found guilty of kidnapping.
The announcement was made by the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, shortly after the State Executive Council meeting on Saturday. He spoke on behalf of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Ajulo said the decision was prompted by the alarming rise in kidnapping incidents across the state, many of which have ended in the death of victims and heavy ransom demands on their families.
“Kidnapping and cultism now pose serious threats to peace and security in our state,” Ajulo said. “This decision is a strong message to criminal elements that Ondo State will not tolerate such acts.”
He added that the government is working on strengthening the state’s legal framework, and a formal proposal will soon be sent to the House of Assembly for legislative approval.
Once passed into law, the death penalty will apply to all convicted kidnappers in the state.