When questioned by journalists about ongoing investigations against individuals and corporations, Ajulo said the state government would not interfere in the operations of agencies such as the police, EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Ondo State Public Complaint, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), has confirmed that operations targeting fraud and financial crimes are currently taking place in the state.
This confirmation comes following reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had declared Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, a former commissioner and aspirant in the 2024 governorship election for the All Progressives Congress, as a wanted individual.
When questioned by journalists about ongoing investigations against individuals and corporations, Ajulo said the state government would not interfere in the operations of agencies such as the police, EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Ondo State Public Complaint, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission.
He further stated that some of the petitions were about the state’s resources, which the State Public Complaint, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission by the extant law in operation was empowered to look into.
Ajulo further spoke about the influx of petitions he had received since assuming the role of Attorney General of Ondo State.
He said the petitions came from citizens, civil society organisations, and even international entities, which raised concerns about the activities of the past government.
"Some petitions specifically implicate former government officials and associates, alleging misappropriation and signature forgery during the tenure of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu," Ajulo said.
He also stated that various issues had emerged regarding alleged fraud committed using the name, approvals, and signatures of the late Governor Akeredolu by past and some present government officials.
According to the commissioner, one particular focus of these petitions revolves around a youth empowerment programme involving artisans and market women, as well as the use of unauthorised agreements to defraud the government of Ondo State.
Ajulo emphasised that the state government operates based on laws and regulations, and entering into agreements with the government requires proper authorisation and approval.
He noted that when such authorisations and approvals are lacking, it raises serious concerns.
When pressed to disclose names, he said, "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 the names of those who are being investigated but we are concerned that the law must take its course in whatever we’re doing.”
For the sake of emphasis, Ajulo stressed, "We cannot obstruct any law enforcement agencies from conducting inquiries, as the Ondo State government is committed to upholding transparency and accountability in governance."