Ease of Governance: Gov. Aiyedatiwa signs four executive orders
The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has signed four new executive orders designed to foster a conducive environment for business growth, improve physical planning, and protect owners of landed properties.
The first executive order focuses on the conduct of government business by various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in the state.
The order mandates the affected MDAs to publish all relevant information, including fees, procedures, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRM), on the official state websites.
Additionally, the MDAs are required to provide functional contact details (telephone and email) during working hours. This order applies to the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Ministry of Lands and Housing, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ondo State Signage and Advertisement Agency, and the Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue Services.
The second order introduces the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investments (FRILIA), aimed at improving the investment climate in the state. This framework ensures that land acquisition and resettlement for large-scale agribusinesses are carried out in line with international best practices.
The order also guarantees that both private investors and local communities benefit equally, promoting agribusiness reforms and addressing land concerns and investment opportunities.
The third executive order seeks to improve physical planning in Ondo State. It stipulates that all building and construction approvals must be granted in phases, with each phase strictly adhering to the initial approvals before proceeding to the next stage.
Additionally, it mandates that all construction projects comply with engineering certifications at every stage, ensuring safety and adherence to engineering standards. No variations to approved building designs will be permitted without official permits.
The fourth order targets land grabbing, prohibiting the forceful entry and illegal occupation of land, as well as violent and fraudulent activities related to land ownership in the state. To enforce this, Governor Aiyedatiwa has established a Task Force to safeguard property rights, uphold the rule of law, and create a secure environment for property owners and residents in Ondo State.
Speaking on the new measures, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, highlighted the significance of the executive orders, stating, “The executive orders signed by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on issues such as agriculture, transparency, building plans, and anti-land grabbing carry significant implications for governance, economic development, and social justice in the region.”
Dr. Ajulo added that the orders reflect Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to progressive governance, prioritising economic development, social equity, and environmental sustainability. He expressed confidence that their successful implementation will lead to a more prosperous, transparent, and equitable society.
