Akure, June 30, 2025 — The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, has confirmed that the state government has received multiple petitions demanding a formal coroner’s inquest into the death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

 

In a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Monday, Ajulo stated that the petitions came from professional bodies and residents, particularly from the late governor’s hometown, citing what they described as “troubling inconsistencies” surrounding Akeredolu’s death.

 

Dr. Ajulo emphasized that under the Coroners Law of Ondo State, members of the public have the legal right to demand clarity when there are suspicions of foul play or lingering questions.

 

“It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns,” he said. “The Attorney General is duty-bound to act in accordance with the law once such concerns are raised by members of the public.”

 

He assured that all procedures would follow due process and that no one would be presumed guilty ahead of any investigation.

 

“We have received petitions from groups both within and outside the state,” he noted. “Let me be clear: due process will be followed. The law is there to serve the people and ensure that truth and justice prevail.”

 

Ajulo added that decisions such as inspecting the governor’s remains or summoning individuals fall within the jurisdiction of the Coroner Judge, and not the Ministry of Justice.

 

He urged the public to remain calm and to approach the matter with civility and responsibility, stressing that the late governor’s legacy and the peace of the state must be preserved.

 

“We must approach this issue with civility, dignity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the legacy of the late Governor and the peace of the state,” he appealed.

 

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to justice, Ajulo concluded: “No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection. Where the law provides a remedy, the government of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will not be found wanting.”

 

Former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a two-term governor and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 67, following a long battle with prostate cancer.