Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has raised an alarm over the alarming state of public properties in private hands, a year after the demise of the former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
LEADERSHIP recalls that Arakunrin Akerdodulu died a year ago subsequent upon which the incumbent, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as substantive governor of Ondo State on December 27, 2023.
However, in a shocking revelation, Ajulo claimed that significant assets belonging to the state had been unlawfully transferred into private hands, a year after the transition.
In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP in Akure, the state capital on Friday, the Dr. Ajulo who denounced the development as completely unacceptable, called for a united stand against the “misappropriation of public resources.”
He emphasised that, “As Attorney General, I must say, this is wrong; we cannot continue on this path.”
He stressed the immediate need for transparency and accountability, referencing serious previous allegations about forged signatures used to facilitate dubious transactions before Akeredolu’s death.
According to him, “As 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.”
While also expressing concern over attempts to withhold crucial information from Governor Aiyedatiwa, the AG warned that efforts to silence inquiries through blackmail and baseless accusations against the Governor and some of his Commissioners would not be tolerated.
He stated further that ,“Only the guilty should fear.”
Ajulo who noted the resistance encountered when questions are raised, observed that, “Some vested interests have resorted to blackmail, alleging that Governor Aiyedatiwa is tarnishing the memory of the late Governor Akeredolu and attacking his nuclear and political family. But how? When? Where? Some of these individuals have resorted to media attacks, yet they fail to explain why they continuously react without provocation.”
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Governor Akeredolu, Dr. Ajulo remarked, “Arakunrin Akeredolu I knew would never have allowed state funds to be exploited like this.”
He called on those involved in the misappropriation of assets to come forward or face the full force of the law.
Ajulo also commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his leadership over the past year, noting his pragmatic approach and visionary leadership.
“Your commitment lays a solid foundation for advancing infrastructure and upholding the rule of law,” he said.
He emphasised that Aiyedatiwa’s initiatives honour Akeredolu’s legacy, reinforcing a commitment to fairness and justice.
He, however, proposed a comprehensive audit of State assets, aiming to restore accountability, and due process as well as ensuring that public resources are effectively used for the benefit of all citizens of the state.