In a stern statement released by the state’s Attorney General, Mr. Kayode Ajulo, the Ondo State government has issued a serious warning to the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s former associates, demanding the immediate return of state assets unlawfully acquired during his tenure. The government’s move, which comes a year after Akeredolu’s untimely passing, underscores growing concerns over missing public resources and the increasing influence of vested interests determined to shield these misappropriated assets.
The statement, delivered by Ajulo on Friday in Akure, outlined the administration’s dissatisfaction with the high number of state assets that have allegedly been transferred into private hands since the death of the former governor. Ajulo’s remarks come as an urgent call for accountability and transparency in the aftermath of a year of political transition under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office after Akeredolu’s death.
“We are now a year removed from the untimely passing of our beloved Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and it is disheartening to note that a significant portion of the state’s assets have been unlawfully transferred into private hands,” Ajulo declared. “This is simply unacceptable.”
The Attorney General’s direct appeal to the former governor’s aides and close associates highlights the deep concern within the current administration over the fate of Ondo State’s public resources. Ajulo’s statement suggested that some individuals, who are allegedly in possession of these misappropriated assets, may be actively working to prevent their return.
Ajulo’s call for an immediate return of state property was framed in the context of efforts to protect Akeredolu’s legacy and ensure that public resources are used solely for the benefit of Ondo’s citizens.
“Arakunrin Akeredolu, the man I knew, would never have allowed state resources to be exploited in this manner,” Ajulo added, his voice laden with emotion. “His legacy of good governance should not be tainted by those who seek to line their pockets at the expense of our people.”
One of the most striking elements of Ajulo’s address was the allegation that certain interests had attempted to withhold critical information from the current administration. Ajulo expressed his frustration with attempts to stifle investigations through blackmail and disinformation, warning that these tactics would no longer be tolerated.
“We cannot continue down this path,” Ajulo stressed. “Our law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies must step up and hold accountable those who believe they are above the law. Only the guilty should fear such scrutiny.”
Ajulo also pointed to ongoing media attacks against Governor Aiyedatiwa and his administration, suggesting that these public criticisms were being orchestrated by those who may have benefited from the illicit transfer of state assets. The Attorney General’s remarks made it clear that he believes the current attacks were not motivated by genuine concern but by the desire to shield those responsible for misappropriating public property.
“Some of these individuals have resorted to media attacks, but they fail to explain why they react so vehemently without any provocation,” Ajulo said. “These are people who know the truth, and they are doing everything in their power to keep it hidden.”
The statement comes after growing frustration within Ondo State regarding the lack of transparency and accountability in state affairs. Ajulo’s directive is not just a plea for the return of state property but also a call for a comprehensive audit to assess the full extent of the alleged misappropriation.
“The time has come for a full audit of all state assets, and we will not rest until justice is done,” Ajulo affirmed. “Those who have unlawfully acquired these assets must return them immediately or face the consequences of the law.”
Ajulo’s firm stance signals a new era of vigilance and accountability for the Ondo State government under Governor Aiyedatiwa, who has faced mounting pressure to address corruption and mismanagement within the state government. Despite the controversies and the media backlash aimed at the administration, the Attorney General’s message is clear: the people of Ondo State deserve to have their resources protected, and no one is above the law.
The call for the return of state assets has sparked a wave of reactions from political figures within Ondo State. Critics of the administration have accused Ajulo and Aiyedatiwa’s government of engaging in politically motivated actions that could undermine the memory of the late Governor Akeredolu. However, Ajulo’s remarks suggest that these criticisms are being viewed with skepticism, as they appear to be coming from those with vested interests in the outcome of the ongoing investigations.
Despite the growing tensions, the Ondo State government remains resolute in its commitment to securing public resources and ensuring that accountability is restored. Ajulo’s directive is clear: the era of unchecked misappropriation of state property is over, and those who are found guilty of wrongdoing will face the full force of the law.
