The Ogun State government has concluded plans to forward a bill to the State House of Assembly aimed at strengthening legal measures and prescribing stiffer penalties against vandals of public infrastructure across the state.

Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this while hosting the Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, Mr. Deolu Ijose, at Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.

The governor has also announced plans to launch the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP), an initiative aimed at providing monthly cash interventions to between 50,000 and 100,000 residents across the state within the next one year.

He expressed concern over the rising cases of vandalism of electricity infrastructure, describing the trend as a major setback to economic growth and service delivery in the state.

According to him, the activities of vandals have continued to undermine efforts aimed at improving electricity supply, lamenting that several public assets, including streetlights installed along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway from the Interchange, had been destroyed.

He described the destruction of electricity facilities as economic sabotage and a form of energy theft that should attract severe legal consequences, warning that anyone caught engaging in such acts would face the full weight of the law.

“Vandalisation is a serious issue, and I believe we must now put stronger legislation in place. I have spoken with the Attorney General on the need for stricter laws and stiffer penalties that will serve as a deterrent because this is economic sabotage. We cannot continue to give light punishments to people destroying critical social infrastructure,” he said.

Abiodun also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving electricity supply through strategic partnerships aimed at tackling the persistent challenge of unstable power across the state.

Speaking earlier, Afolabi said the visit was to inform the governor about the takeover of IBEDC by a new management team and to explore ways of addressing some of the challenges facing the power company, noting that meaningful development cannot take place without stable electricity.

He commended the governor for his achievements, particularly in infrastructure and energy, adding that his organisation was ready to partner with the state government.

Also speaking, Ijose said IBEDC was seeking stronger collaboration with the state government to address electricity challenges affecting communities and industrial clusters.

He noted that improved synergy between both parties would fast-track interventions aimed at reducing outages and improving service delivery.

He also acknowledged Ogun State’s strategic position as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial hubs, stressing that reliable electricity remains crucial to investment, productivity, and economic development.

Speaking on Friday during the official opening of the first session of the 15th Synod of the Remo Anglican Diocese, themed, ‘The Empty Tomb: An Authentic Proof of the Living Saviour, Jesus Christ,’ held at Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, Ikenne, Abiodun disclosed his administration’s plan to lift vulnerable residents through monthly cash transfers.

He also disclosed that his administration would prioritise the reconstruction of the Sagamu–Ode Lemo Road, stressing that collaboration between government and the Church remains essential to building a peaceful, just, and progressive society.

He commended the Church for her steadfast commitment to spiritual renewal, community development, and godly nation-building at a time when the nation requires strong moral and faith-based guidance.

According to him, the Church’s dedication to propagating the gospel, promoting peace, and uplifting humanity continues to inspire hope across the country.

The governor noted that the Synod has remained a sacred platform for prayers, doctrinal guidance, collective reflection, and decision-making that strengthens the body of Christ, while also contributing significantly to the moral and social development of society beyond the Anglican Communion.

Abiodun further praised the Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, youth development, family values, and community welfare, describing it as a critical partner in shaping responsible citizens and nurturing ethical leadership through teachings that promote compassion, honesty, accountability, and peaceful coexistence.

The governor stated that his administration has significantly reduced political tension in the state compared to seven years ago, when politics was characterised by violence and thuggery.

He added that the ongoing primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have been peaceful, transparent, and credible.

In his sermon, the Bishop of the Remo Diocese and Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Olusina Fape, commended Abiodun for translating his ISEYA development agenda into impactful projects across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He described the recently inaugurated Gateway International Airport as a transformative project capable of easing travel and stimulating commerce and trade within the state.

Fape also lauded the state government’s Light Up Ogun Project, describing it as a major catalyst for investment and economic growth.

According to him, the provision of stable electricity to residents and businesses remains one of the landmark achievements of the Abiodun administration.