Setting The Record Straight On Ajulo And Ondo State’s Commitment To Judicial Autonomy…. By Olufemi Lawson

I read with concern and measured attention the article published by, Barr. Gbenga Akinbuli, Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State, wherein he launched a sweeping condemnation of the Ondo State Government and specifically took aim at the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON. While I recognize and appreciate Barr. Akinbuli’s patriotic concern as a bonafide son of Ondo State, his publication unfortunately crossed the boundary of fair critique and strayed into the realm of misinformation, sensationalism, and politicization of a delicate issue.

Let it be clear, every stakeholder in a democratic society has the right, and duty, to speak on matters that affect our institutions. However, such engagement must be anchored in truth, objectivity, and the greater good, not political gain or character assassination.

Contrary to the one-sided narrative painted in the article, the current administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to the upliftment and transformation of the judiciary in Ondo State. In fact, no administration in recent memory has shown more genuine interest in strengthening the justice system.

To begin with, it is in the public domain that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has embarked on the construction of the ₦32 billion Rotimi Akeredolu Judicial Complex, a historic and transformative project aimed at enhancing the physical infrastructure of the judiciary. This is not mere tokenism but a bold and strategic investment in the future of justice in our state. This is alongside the promotion of judges and judiciary staff, as well as the attention given to several long-term demands of judicial stakeholders.

On the appointment of Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN as the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, one must be honest to admit that this was a masterstroke by Governor Aiyedatiwa. Dr. Ajulo is not only a learned silk with exceptional academic and professional accomplishments, he is a long-standing rights activist and an unapologetic advocate for judicial reforms in Nigeria. His record, from the courtroom to the frontlines of civic activism, is available in the public sphere and has earned him nationwide respect.

It is thus not only unfair but disappointing for anyone, especially a fellow lawyer, to attempt to reduce such a towering figure to a symbol of institutional failure. The reality is that not many lawyers, including Barr. Akinbuli himself, can match the commitment Dr. Ajulo has consistently shown toward progressive reforms in Nigeria’s judicial sector.

As regards the ongoing industrial action by members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), we must be careful not to allow politics blind us to the complexities surrounding the matter. The current situation stems from contentions around the implementation of financial autonomy, a policy area that, while constitutionally affirmed, still requires coordinated frameworks between arms of government. It is not a simple matter of wishful declarations or blame allocation.

Dr. Ajulo, as Attorney General, has been actively involved in consultations and negotiations, going as far as proposing meetings at the JUSUN Secretariat or other locations convenient for the workers, just to break the ice and build consensus. He has acted with responsibility, empathy, and respect for institutional integrity.

To suggest, as Barr. Akinbuli did, that there is a “blatant disregard” for judicial autonomy is not only misleading but an insult to the ongoing efforts behind the scenes. Does it mean Mr Akinbuli isn’t aware of the politics behind some opportunistic elements without stake in the union, undoubtedly influenced, to secure a court judgement against the State Government over the financial autonomy, the attendant implications of the said judgement on the overall interest of the state financially and why the state is duty bound to appeal such a judgement, which may have grievous consequences on the survival of the other sectors within the State, particularly as it may affect governance.

The Ondo State Government has not been nonchalant, nor has it shown contempt for the rule of law. Rather, it has prioritized rule of law, dialogue, stability, and long-term reforms.

Yes, it is unfortunately conventional for some politicians to exploit challenges like industrial actions for political grandstanding. But it becomes worrisome when such attempts are made at the expense of truth, and worse still, when they seek to tarnish the image of others with unfounded claims.

As citizens and as patriots, we must rise above opportunistic criticisms and join hands in helping to resolve crises with a sense of responsibility. The present administration remains committed to resolving this dispute in a manner that ensures not just the welfare of judiciary workers but also the protection of justice and order for every citizen of the state.

In the coming hours and days, I am confident that a resolution will be reached through continued engagement, guided by mutual respect, institutional maturity, and genuine concern for the people of Ondo State.

Let it be known that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains firmly on the path of development, justice, and service delivery. The government will not be deterred by distractions or blackmail. One of its cardinal responsibilities is ensuring access to justice, and it will continue to champion reforms and policies that empower the judiciary to serve the people better.

Comrade Lawson, Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Ondo State on Public Enlightenment