The Sunshine League of Professionals has faulted a recent editorial by The Nation newspaper titled “Let Akeredolu Rest in Peace,” describing it as a politicisation of a legitimate legal process concerning the late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
In a strongly worded rejoinder signed by its chairman, Dr. Bayo Akinrimisi, the group emphasised that the recent statement by the Office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State—regarding multiple petitions for a coroner’s inquest into the late governor’s death—was strictly in line with constitutional duties and not politically motivated.
“It is troubling and disappointing that such a serious matter has been reduced to political misrepresentation in the public space,” the statement read. “We wish to make it clear that the call for a coroner’s inquest stems from public interest and must not be misconstrued as a personal vendetta.”
The group maintained that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration has a legal and moral duty to address legitimate concerns raised by citizens, especially concerning the circumstances surrounding the passing of a sitting governor.
“We hold the late Governor Akeredolu in the highest regard and seek to honour his legacy through lawful means,” Dr. Akinrimisi stated. “However, a government elected by the people cannot ignore constitutionally guaranteed petitions.”
While condemning insinuations that there may be personal motives behind the state government’s actions, the Sunshine League called for a civil and transparent process, stressing that there was “no reason to incite unnecessary alarm or public anxiety” over a lawful inquest.
The group warned that should the government fail to act in accordance with the law, they may be forced to seek judicial intervention.
“If the Ondo State Government fails to uphold the law, we’ll have no choice but to take our case to court,” the statement concluded. “The pursuit of truth and clarity must not be hindered by political interests.”
The debate over whether a formal inquiry should be launched into the death of the late governor has attracted divergent opinions, but the Sunshine League insists that mature and responsible discourse must prevail.
