By: Maryjane Austine
Ondo Government Moves to Probe Akeredolu’s Death Amid Public Outcry
The Ondo State Government has announced plans to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), following increasing public demands for clarity.
According to a statement issued on Monday, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), confirmed that his office had received several petitions requesting an official inquest under the Coroners Law of Ondo State. The petitions, he said, questioned the reported cause of death and hinted at possible foul play.
Ajulo explained that while the state respects the public’s concerns, the proper legal channel would be followed in handling the matter. “The law is in place to serve justice. There’s a process for this, and we must allow it to run its full course,” he said.
Some of the petitions, including those from Akeredolu’s hometown and professional bodies, reportedly named his widow, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, expressing concerns over what they described as her recent public behaviour, which they believe contradicts the official cancer-related cause of death.
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The Justice Commissioner clarified that decisions regarding the inspection or exhumation of the late governor’s remains would be determined by a Coroner Judge, not his ministry. He stressed that the state’s role is to maintain transparency and uphold the rule of law.
Ajulo appealed to the public for calm and reassured citizens of the government’s commitment to fairness and justice under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. “No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection,” he stated.
The development has now placed attention on the state judiciary, as the public awaits whether a formal coroner’s inquest will be initiated.
