The Ondo State government has expressed its readiness to probe the circumstances that surrounded the death of the immediate-past governor of the State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The government hinted that a coroner’s inquest will be launched to reveal what led to the death of Akeredolu, who died on December 27, 2023 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
However, the State government, through its Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, in a statement made available to journalists in Akure on Tuesday, said the move became imperative following a request from some concerned citizens of the state who submitted a petition to the Ministry of Justice
According to Ajulo, the public has every right under the Coroner’s Law of Ondo State to demand clarity in cases where foul play is suspected or questions linger.
He said, “It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns.
“The Attorney General is duty-bound to act in accordance with the law once such concerns are raised by members of the public.”
Ajulo confirmed that his ministry had received multiple petitions, including from professional bodies and people of the late governor’s hometown of Owo, urging his office to investigate what they described as troubling inconsistencies surrounding Akeredolu’s death.
“We have received petitions from groups both within and outside the state. Let me be clear: due process will be followed. The law is there to serve the people and ensure that truth and justice prevail. No individual will be presumed guilty, and neither will the process be derailed by sentiment or political interference.
“If invitations or arrests need to be made, the process will not deviate from doing the needful,” Ajulo explained.
While emphasising that decisions such as inspecting the governor’s remains or summoning individuals fall squarely under the discretion of the Coroner Judge, Ajulo insisted that “The law will be allowed to take its course.”
“We must approach this issue with civility, dignity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the legacy of the late Governor and the peace of the state.”
The Attorney General added, “No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection. Where the law provides a remedy, the government of Governor Aiyedatiwa will not be found wanting.”
