Tension in Ondo Over Calls to Investigate Akeredolu’s Death

There is a case of rising tension in Ondo State following public calls for the government to probe the death of former Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.

Naija Metro News could recall that Akeredolu passed away in Germany on December 27, 2023, after battling a long-term illness. 

At the time, Lucky Aiyedatiwa was serving as acting governor and was later sworn in as the substantive governor.

On Monday, the state government confirmed that it had received several petitions from residents of Owo, Akeredolu’s hometown, and from various professional groups, demanding a formal inquiry into the former governor’s death.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, said in a statement that the public has a legal right under the Ondo State Coroners Law to request an inquest if foul play is suspected or questions remain unanswered.

“We have received petitions from both within and outside the state, including professional bodies and from Owo,” Ajulo stated. “The law allows people to ask for clarity, and once concerns are raised, the Attorney General has a duty to act.”

He added that due process would be followed and that the government would not act out of emotion or bias.

However, the development has stirred mixed reactions. Former Minister of State for Transport and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Ademola Adegoroye, cautioned against the move, warning it could trigger unnecessary unrest.

In a statement titled “All things are lawful but not all things are expedient,” Adegoroye said he had received numerous calls from concerned individuals after the Attorney General confirmed the plan to open a coroner’s inquest.

He urged the government to be careful and warned that some of the petitioners might be trying to make Aiyedatiwa’s administration look like it is pursuing a political vendetta.

“Everyone should allow the dead to rest. Let the controversies end. Let God be the judge in this matter,” he said.

Also weighing in, a legal practitioner, Mr. Sola Ajisafe, advised the governor to act wisely. In a statement, he urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to focus on promoting peace and unity in the state.

“Your legacy will depend on the decisions you make. I pray you choose the path of healing,” he said.

When reached for comment, Akeredolu’s widow, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, simply responded via WhatsApp: “No comment.”