The Ondo State government has strongly dismissed criticisms by lawyer Sola Ajisafe, describing his recent commentary on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Attorney General Kayode Ajulo (SAN) as misleading, unfounded, and politically motivated.
In a detailed rebuttal, the government said Ajisafe’s claims over an ongoing eligibility suit against the governor were riddled with distortions and lacked proper legal grounding. It insisted that the case, filed against Aiyedatiwa in his personal capacity, failed to establish a credible cause of action and was therefore rightly challenged in court.
According to the statement, the governor’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegboyega Awomolo, alongside Ebun Adegboruwa (SAN), filed a preliminary objection based on multiple legal grounds, including the constitutional immunity granted to sitting governors under Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution.
The government emphasized that the immunity clause is not a personal privilege but a constitutional safeguard designed to protect the office of the governor and ensure stability in governance. It warned that allowing such a suit to proceed unchecked could set a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s federal system.
Responding to allegations that the Attorney General, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, influenced or “scripted” the governor’s legal responses, the statement described such claims as baseless and defamatory. It maintained that Ajulo acted strictly within his constitutional responsibilities, prioritizing the rule of law and the interests of the state.
The government also dismissed suggestions of any hidden political agenda, including speculation about a potential third-term ambition. It clarified that Governor Aiyedatiwa has neither declared nor indicated any intention to seek another term, describing such claims as speculative and misleading.
On recent political activities, including a pro-President Bola Tinubu rally, officials said the event was merely a show of support and should not be misconstrued as evidence of unconstitutional ambitions.
Ajisafe’s remarks on government appointments were also rejected, with authorities noting that the governor’s actions fall within his constitutional powers to appoint and restructure aides for effective governance.
The statement further criticized what it described as “reckless insinuations” against Ajulo, warning that such allegations could attract disciplinary action if found to breach professional standards within the legal profession.
Highlighting Ajulo’s credentials, the government pointed to his track record as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, legal reform advocate, and Attorney General, citing initiatives such as justice sector reforms and legal innovations in the state.
Reaffirming confidence in its leadership, the Ondo State government said both Governor Aiyedatiwa and the Attorney General remain committed to upholding constitutional order and delivering effective governance.
It concluded by urging the public to disregard what it termed “agenda-driven attacks,” insisting that the issues raised by Ajisafe lack substance and do not reflect the realities of governance in the state.