Fresh tension is brewing in Ondo State following a wave of petitions calling on the government to launch a formal investigation into the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away on December 27, 2023, in Germany after a long illness.
The state government, on Monday, confirmed receipt of multiple petitions from individuals and professional bodies, many from Akeredolu’s hometown of Owo, demanding a coroner’s inquest into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Calls for Clarity Under Coroners Law
In a statement, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, confirmed that the state had received several requests invoking the Coroners Law of Ondo State, which allows for official inquests when foul play is suspected or clarity is sought on a person’s death.
“Let me be clear: due process will be followed. The law is there to serve the people and ensure that truth and justice prevail. It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns,” Ajulo said.
He added that the petitions span both local and out-of-state groups, including professional bodies, and that the Attorney General’s office is legally bound to act when such concerns are raised.
Backlash from Political and Legal Circles
However, the development has drawn sharp reactions from prominent political figures and legal practitioners in the state, with many urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to tread carefully.
A former Minister of State for Transport and APC chieftain, Ademola Adegoroye, issued a strong-worded caution, warning against turning the issue into what he described as “an unnecessary wildfire.”
“All things are lawful but not all things are expedient,” Adegoroye said, warning that the government risks being manipulated by “mischievous persons” trying to portray Aiyedatiwa’s administration as vindictive.
“Let the dead rest. Let the controversies around him end and let God be God in the matter,” he added.
Legal practitioner Mr Sola Ajisafe also weighed in, urging the governor to act with restraint and emotional intelligence.
“Your legacy will be defined by the choices you make, and I pray that you’ll choose a path that promotes healing and unity,” Ajisafe said.
Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the widow of the late governor, declined to speak on the matter.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who was sworn in as substantive governor following Akeredolu’s death, now faces a delicate balancing act. While the petitions place a legal and moral obligation on the government to act, the political and emotional undercurrents of the situation could carry unintended consequences.
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