The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Kayode Ajulo, has stated that the proposed legislation of ‘death penalty’ for any kidnappers would strengthen the criminal laws of the state by allowing stricter penalties for convict.
Ajulo also said the legislation, which is aimed at reviewing and updating the existing laws in the state to reflect current realities, would serve as a strong deterrent against such crime.
Recall that the state government had at the weekend said any kidnapper convicted by court of law would henceforth face the ‘death penalty’ by hanging,
It also stressed that any building and facilities used for committing such crime would be demolished in line with the law.
But addressing journalists yesterday in Akure, Ajulo said the legislation, which was deliberated at the state executive council, would be forwarded to the State House of Assembly as Executive Bills for legislative consideration.
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He said: “The proposed legislation to stem kidnappings and social vices aimed to repeal the one in force, which seeks to strengthen the criminal laws of Ondo State, with particular focus on anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping legislations.
“The bills are to review and update existing laws to reflect current realities, introducing stricter penalties that serve as a strong deterrent against these crimes.
“This executive bill was deliberated upon at the Ondo State Executive Council meeting and given the nod to be sent to the Ondo State House of Assembly as Executive Bills for legislative consideration.”
According to him, “Some of the provisions are the introduction of the death penalty for convicted kidnappers, particularly in cases where the victim is killed or dies while in the custody of the abductors.
“The bill also addresses broader issues concerning state security, public safety, and peace. Many existing laws, such as the law against cultism and related offences, require thorough revision.”
He observed that previous legislation in the state did not account for the involvement of family members, friends, or associates of offenders in cult-related activities.
Additionally, the Ondo AG explained that while current laws recognised just a few cult groups, the number of active groups has significantly increased and necessitated the government of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to act.
“The outdated classifications and inadequate provisions have created enforcement gaps and limited the effectiveness of the justice system.
“Under the proposed law, penalties for cultism and kidnapping will be substantially increased. For instance, offences that previously attracted a six-year prison sentence may now carry a 21-year term, and in cases involving loss of life, the death penalty may apply.”