Ondo AG Decries State Properties in Private Hands One Year After Akeredolu’s Death

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has raised concerns over the alarming state of public properties in private hands, one year after the death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.

Dr. Ajulo highlighted this issue while reflecting on the events that followed Akeredolu’s passing, which led to the swearing-in of the current Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on December 27, 2023.

In a statement issued on Friday in Akure, the state capital, Ajulo revealed that significant state assets had been unlawfully transferred into private hands since the transition. He condemned this development as completely unacceptable, calling for collective action against the misappropriation of public resources.

“As Attorney General, I must say this is wrong; we cannot continue down this path,” Ajulo declared. He stressed the urgent need for transparency and accountability, recalling earlier allegations of forged signatures used in facilitating dubious transactions before Akeredolu’s death.

“As the Chief Law Officer of the state, I must ensure that Ondo State operates within the framework of our constitution and laws. Our law enforcement and regulatory agencies must be fully accountable,” he emphasized.

Ajulo also expressed concerns over attempts to withhold vital information from Governor Aiyedatiwa and warned that attempts to suppress inquiries through blackmail or baseless accusations against the Governor and his commissioners would not be tolerated.

“Only the guilty should fear,” he asserted.

Ajulo further pointed out the resistance faced when questions were raised, noting that certain vested interests had resorted to blackmail, claiming that Governor Aiyedatiwa was tarnishing the memory of the late Governor Akeredolu and attacking his family. “But how? When? Where?” he questioned. He criticized these individuals for their media attacks, pointing out that they failed to explain why they reacted without provocation.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late Governor Akeredolu, Ajulo remarked, “Arakunrin Akeredolu I knew would never have allowed state funds to be exploited like this.” He called for those responsible for the misappropriation of state assets to come forward, or face the full force of the law.

Ajulo also praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his leadership over the past year, noting his pragmatic and visionary approach. He commended Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and upholding the rule of law, which, according to Ajulo, reinforces Akeredolu’s legacy of fairness and justice.

The Attorney General proposed a comprehensive audit of state assets to restore accountability, ensure due process, and guarantee that public resources are used effectively for the benefit of Ondo State’s citizens.