Ondo AG confirms petitions demanding coroner’s inquest into Akeredolu’s death

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has confirmed receiving petitions demanding a coroner’s inquest into the death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.

Ajulo, in a statement on Monday, disclosed that the petitions came from various groups and individuals, including professional bodies and residents of the late governor’s hometown.

He explained that under the Ondo State Coroners Law, any citizen or group with genuine concerns over a death considered suspicious or unnatural has the right to request an inquest. He added that the Ministry of Justice is obligated to act in line with the law.

“It is within the rights of citizens to demand the invocation of the Coroners Law where they believe there are unresolved questions. The Attorney General is duty-bound to act once such concerns are formally raised,” Ajulo stated.

The Attorney General assured that the Ministry would handle the matter transparently, objectively, and strictly in accordance with legal provisions.

“We are committed to ensuring that the truth prevails. The law will be allowed to take its full course. We owe that much to the people and to the legacy of the late Governor,” he added.

The petitions reportedly referenced the former First Lady, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, among others, whose actions, according to the petitioners, raised concerns regarding the official account of the late governor’s death from cancer-related complications.

Responding to whether the remains of the late governor would be examined, Ajulo clarified that such a decision rests solely with the coroner appointed to handle the case, not his office.