Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, the Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, has voiced his concerns regarding the ongoing retention of state assets by former political office holders.
In a statement made on Friday in Akure, Ajulo, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, stated, “One year after the untimely passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a considerable amount of the state’s assets has been improperly transferred into private ownership.
“We consider this situation completely unacceptable and are urging everyone to unite against the misappropriation of public resources.
“In reflecting on the past year under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, I must assert, as Attorney General, that this is simply wrong; we cannot continue down this path.
“There is an urgent need for transparency and accountability, especially regarding serious previous allegations of forged signatures that facilitated questionable transactions prior to Akeredolu’s demise.”
He emphasized that, as the Chief Law Officer of Ondo State, it is essential that the state operates within the limits of the constitution and relevant laws.
Ajulo also expressed his concern about attempts to keep vital information from Governor Aiyedatiwa.
He cautioned that any efforts to intimidate inquiries through blackmail and unfounded accusations directed at the governor and some of his commissioners would be unacceptable.
The attorney general declared that only those guilty of wrongdoing should fear scrutiny.
“Certain vested interests have resorted to blackmail, claiming that Governor Aiyedatiwa is tarnishing the memory of the late Governor Akeredolu and attacking his immediate and political family.
“But how? When? Where? Many of these individuals engage in media attacks yet fail to provide an explanation for their continued reactiveness without provocation,” he remarked.
He noted that the late Akeredolu, as he knew him, would never have permitted the exploitation of state funds in such a manner.
Ajulo urged those involved in the misappropriation of assets to come forward or face the full repercussions of the law.
He acknowledged Governor Aiyedatiwa for his pragmatic approach and visionary leadership, stating that these qualities have helped to build upon the foundation established in infrastructure development and reinforce the rule of law.
According to Ajulo, Aiyedatiwa’s initiatives honor the legacy of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, reaffirming a commitment to fairness and justice.
He indicated that a comprehensive audit of state assets would soon take place, aimed at restoring accountability, ensuring due process, and making sure public resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of all citizens in the state. (NAN)
The Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, has raised concerns over the continued retention of state assets in the hands of former political office holders.
