By Ayodele Oni
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, has confirmed that anti graft agencies are currently probing into operations of previous administration’s in the state.
This confirmation followed the recent announcement by the anti-graft agency declaring Mr. Wale Akinteriwa, a former commissioner for finance and aspirant in Saturday Governorship Election wanted.
Ajulo emphasized that the State Government will not interfere with the operations of agencies such as the Police, EFCC, ICPC, and the Ondo State Public Complaint, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission.
He further stated that some of the petitions are about the State’s resources of which the State Public Complaint, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission, by the extant law in operation is empowered to look into.
The commissioner disclosed that there have been influx of petitions to his office, originating from citizens, civil society organizations, and even international entities, which raise concerns about past government activities.
“Some petitions specifically implicate former government officials and associates, alleging misappropriation and signature forgery during the tenure of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.”
He also stated that various issues have emerged regarding alleged fraud committed using the name, approvals, and signatures of the late Governor Akeredolu by past and some present government officials.
“One particular focus of these petitions revolves around a youth empowerment programme involving artisans and market women, as well as the use of unauthorized agreements to defraud the government of Ondo State.”
Ajulo emphasized that the Ondo State Government operation is based on laws and regulations, and entering into agreements with the government requires proper authorization and approval. “When such authorization and approval are lacking, it raises serious concerns.
“I discourage media trials. Naming names serves what purpose? The law applies to everyone, and at the appropriate time, if necessary, names will be revealed.
“The investigations must be thorough and unbiased. We are not concerned with names of who is being investigated, but we are concern that the law must take its course in whatever we’re doing.
“We cannot obstruct any law enforcement agencies from conducting inquiries, as the Ondo State government is committed to upholding transparency and accountability in governance.”
