Tension is building across Ondo State following calls for an official investigation into the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
The demands, submitted through multiple petitions to the state government, have prompted mixed reactions from political figures and residents alike.
Akeredolu passed away on December 27, 2023, in Germany after battling a prolonged illness. In the wake of his death, then-Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the substantive governor of the state.
On Monday, the Ondo State Government disclosed that it had received numerous petitions from individuals, groups in Owo—Akeredolu’s hometown—and professional bodies requesting a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Confirming this, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, stated that the petitions were legitimate and in line with the Coroners Law of Ondo State.
“We have received petitions from groups both within and outside the state, including professional bodies and even from the late governor’s hometown,” Ajulo said. “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 (the law) 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.”
Despite the legal justification, the move has drawn warnings from prominent indigenes who caution against the potential political fallout.
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former Minister of State for Transport, Ademola Adegoroye, issued a statement titled, “All things are lawful but not all things are expedient.” He expressed concern that the probe might fuel unrest.
He said, “Some mischievous persons [may] make it start an unnecessary wildfire in the state.”
Adegoroye noted that he had received calls from respected individuals across the country after news of the planned coroner’s inquest broke.
He added, “Everyone should let the dead rest. Let the controversies around him end and let God be God in the matter.”
Also commenting, a legal practitioner in the state, Mr. Sola Ajisafe, advised Governor Aiyedatiwa to tread carefully in handling the matter.
“Mr Governor sir, as you navigate these challenges, I hope you’ll remember the importance of gratitude, empathy, and wisdom.
“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.
Efforts to get a reaction from the widow of the late governor, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, proved unsuccessful. When contacted via WhatsApp, she responded tersely: “No comment.”
As debates over the proposed investigation continue, the state government has assured that any action taken will remain within the bounds of the law and driven by public interest.
