The Ondo State Government’s decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has ignited a wave of controversy across the state.
This follows a recent statement by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo (SAN), who revealed that the Ministry of Justice had received several petitions from individuals and groups within and outside Ondo State, requesting a coroner’s inquest into the former governor’s death.
According to Ajulo, the petitioners whose identities remain undisclosed alleged that the late governor’s widow, Betty Akeredolu, and others may have been involved in his demise.
The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from various stakeholders. Former Minister of State for Transportation, Ademola Adegoroye, condemned the move, describing it as “unthinkable” and warning Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa against approving the exhumation of Akeredolu’s remains.
“For the sake of peace and stability in Ondo State, the governor must tread carefully,” Adegoroye said. “Those behind these petitions are clearly being mischievous. The government must avoid walking into a trap that could tarnish its image.”
Echoing similar sentiments, former Head of Service in the state, Ajose Kudehinbu, questioned the rationale behind initiating a coroner’s inquest. He emphasized that the cause of Akeredolu’s death reportedly prostate cancer was never in dispute.
“When I read about the plan to probe how Akeredolu died, I couldn’t believe it,” Kudehinbu said. “Such actions threaten the peace and unity of the state. Executive authority lies solely with the governor, and that power must not be compromised for any reason.”
Also reacting, legal practitioner Sola Ajisafe described the planned inquest as both unnecessary and potentially divisive. He criticized the move as an “assault on the memory” of the late governor, warning that it could inflame tensions in Akeredolu’s hometown of Owo.
“The Owo community is complex and sensitive,” Ajisafe stated. “Actions that may heighten existing tensions should be avoided. The Attorney-General’s reference to the controversial demolition of a cenotaph in Owo by the late governor’s wife further reveals the politically charged nature of this initiative.”
Akeredolu passed away in December 2023 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. His death was publicly announced by the state government, and tributes poured in from across the country in recognition of his service.
As reactions continue to pour in, the probe has opened deep political and emotional wounds in the state, raising questions about the motives behind the government’s decision.
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