Ondo Declares War on Kidnappers: Death Penalty Approved as Governor Aiyedatiwa Gets Tough on Crime

Published by RYNI Media
Omotayo Oluwaseun

22nd June 2025

In a landmark decision aimed at curbing rising insecurity, the Ondo State Government has approved the death penalty for individuals convicted of kidnapping. This bold move, announced by the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, marks a decisive step in Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s crackdown on violent crime.

This tough stance was made public by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, who addressed journalists on Saturday following the monthly meeting of the State Executive Council. Speaking on behalf of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ajulo announced that kidnappers will face capital punishment upon conviction.

“The era of impunity for kidnappers is over,” Ajulo declared. “Anyone found guilty of this heinous crime will be sentenced to death. This is not just about punishment; it’s about deterrence, justice, and the right of every resident to live without fear.”

The policy is part of a broader government strategy to restore public safety amid a disturbing surge in kidnapping cases across the state. Many victims have not only been subjected to cruel treatment and ransom demands but, in several cases, brutally murdered—even after payments were made.

Ajulo also revealed that the state would not only target the criminals themselves but also the infrastructure that supports their operations. “Any property used as a hideout or operational base by kidnappers will be demolished,” he said, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance approach.

He added that kidnapping and cultism have become twin evils plaguing the state, threatening public order and undermining community life. “We are strengthening our legal and security frameworks. The safety of our people is non-negotiable,” Ajulo stressed.

He further noted that the proposed legislation would soon be transmitted to the Ondo State House of Assembly for swift consideration and passage into law. Once enacted, it will empower the judiciary to impose the death penalty on convicted kidnappers and authorize the state to take down any building found to be linked to such criminal activities.

The announcement has ignited discussions across the state, with many residents welcoming the move as long overdue. Civil society groups and security analysts alike have praised the government’s proactive posture, stating that strong legal deterrents are essential to reversing the tide of insecurity.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has pledged to put security at the heart of its agenda. With this firm step, Ondo State may be charting a new course in the fight against organized crime.

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