The Ondo State Government says it is preparing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
Speaking on Monday, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, revealed that his ministry has received several petitions requesting a coroner’s inquest into the former governor’s death.
Ajulo said the petitions, submitted by professional groups and residents of Akeredolu’s hometown in Owo, raised concerns about alleged inconsistencies and unanswered questions regarding his demise.
He noted that the state’s coroner law grants citizens the right to seek clarity in cases where there may be suspicions of foul play.
“It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns,” Ajulo stated.
He emphasised that all procedures would follow the rule of law and that the ministry was committed to ensuring transparency and justice.
“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,” he said.
Ajulo assured the public that no assumptions would be made and no one would be treated unfairly during the investigation. He stressed that the process would not be swayed by political pressure or public sentiment.
“If invitations or arrests need to be made, the process will not deviate from doing the needful,” he added.
According to him, key decisions such as whether to examine the late governor’s remains or summon witnesses will rest entirely with the coroner, in line with legal provisions.
Ajulo urged all parties involved to approach the matter with decorum and respect for the late governor’s memory.
“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,” he said.
Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), passed away on December 27, 2023.
Akeredolu’s widow slams Aiyedatiwa
Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the former First Lady of Ondo State, has criticised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for ordering the demolition of the memorial park dedicated to the victims of the tragic June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo.
The park, a project initiated by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, was built to honour the memory of 41 worshippers who lost their lives in the brutal assault.
Despite its significance, the memorial was torn down on June 21, 2025, under the directive of Mr Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
Authorities explained that the decision followed pressure from the Olowo of Owo and his council, who argued that the memorial’s proximity to the palace was culturally offensive and an ‘abomination.’
