Ondo AG Confirms Petitions Seeking Coroner’s Inquest Into Akeredolu’s Death

Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, has confirmed the receipt of multiple petitions requesting a formal coroner’s inquest into the passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. The disclosure came on Monday, following rising calls from citizens and professional bodies for legal clarity over the circumstances surrounding Akeredolu’s death.

Ajulo, in a formal statement made available to PUNCH Online, emphasized that the public is fully entitled to seek transparency under the Coroners Law of Ondo State, especially in situations where suspicions of foul play or ambiguity exist. He reinforced that legal procedures will be meticulously followed and reassured the public that the Ministry of Justice is treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

“It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns,” Ajulo said.

He added, “The Attorney General is duty-bound to act in accordance with the law once such concerns are raised by members of the public.

NELFUND Warns Against Fake Student Loan Portal, Urges Public Vigilance

Petitions and Legal Response: A Step Towards Accountability

According to Dr. Ajulo, the Ministry has been inundated with petitions not only from within Ondo State but also from outside its borders. Among the petitioners are professional groups and residents of Owo, the late governor’s hometown. These petitions highlight alleged inconsistencies and raise troubling questions about the former governor’s death that the public believes deserve formal scrutiny.

“We have received petitions from groups both within and outside the state,” Ajulo revealed.

He stated unequivocally that due process will be followed, assuring the public that the legal framework will be the guiding principle in handling any potential investigation. Importantly, Ajulo made it clear that no person would be presumed guilty, nor would the investigative process be manipulated by emotion or political influence.

“If invitations or arrests need to be made, the process will not deviate from doing the needful,” he affirmed.

Ajulo noted that the authority to conduct actions such as exhumation or the summoning of individuals lies solely with the designated Coroner Judge. Such decisions will be made in line with established legal provisions, and no shortcuts will be tolerated.

“The law will be allowed to take its course,” he emphasized.

Call for Calm as Inquest May Loom

As anticipation grows regarding a possible inquest, the Attorney General has called for restraint among the public and stakeholders. He appealed for a collective sense of responsibility in dealing with the legacy of the late governor and preserving the tranquility of Ondo State.

“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,” Ajulo advised.

In reaffirming the state’s commitment to legal accountability, Ajulo highlighted the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s firm resolve to uphold justice. He noted that while emotions may be running high, the ultimate goal remains truth, justice, and peace.

“No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection,” Ajulo stated.

He assured the public that if the Coroners Law of Ondo State provides a mechanism for justice, the current administration will ensure it is executed without fear or favor.

Akeredolu’s Legacy and Public Sentiment

Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a former two-term Governor of Ondo State and one-time President of the Nigerian Bar Association, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 67. The state government had attributed his death to a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. However, the emergence of petitions demanding further inquiry underscores a lingering unease among segments of the public.

His leadership tenure left a profound impact on the legal and political framework of Ondo State, making calls for transparency regarding his passing all the more potent.

As the legal machinery prepares to respond to the petitions, citizens await clarity and truth. What unfolds in the coming weeks could potentially shape not only public confidence in governance but also reinforce the principle that justice must be seen to be done.