I've been inundated with several
paste up documents, purporting to be extracts of white paper reports of a
commission of inquiry, on the tenure of Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, as former
attorney-general of Ondo State.
First, these papers have not been
truly certified, as emerging from the proper custody of the Ondo State
Government and to that extent, they become documents just flying in the air.
Second, Mr Akeredolu has led the
prestigious Nigerian Bar Association as its President, most creditably and eruditely,
and I personally remain proud of his illustrious tenure, as Bar leader. He was
forthright, courageous and impactful.
Third, Mr Akeredolu contested for
the Governorship of Ondo State in the last election and these reports did not
stop him from that contest and should not and cannot stop him now. It is
totally in bad taste.
I will therefore appeal that the
candidates of the parties should be allowed to contest the election on the
merits, without any scheming or character assassination.
I've had the privilege of working
with and appearing in court with all the leading contestants and I testify that
they are all men of great repute, distinguished scholars and respectable
professionals.
Eyitato Jegede, SAN, I met and
worked with personally whilst he was attorney general of Ondo State. A perfect
gentleman, pure professional and humble public officer per excellence and a
very devoted Christian. Like Akeredolu, I can readily vouch for him, any day. He
was always on the side of the law and was at one time elected to lead other
Attorneys-General nationwide.
Chief Olushola Oke, a leading legal
practitioner and former PDP legal adviser, is an epitome of knowledge, so very
caring and hardworking, committed to grass roots development and people
friendly. I've been working with him personally and professionally for over ten
years, by which time I've come to know him as a courageous politician and
accomplished advocate, so very brilliant and formidable, in and out of court.
He has held and excelled in so many public offices, in his lifetime.
So any of these great men can
competently rule Ondo State, if allowed the level playing field to test their
popularity with the people, without the influences and schemings of Aso Villa,
Alagbaka or Bourdillon.
I therefore urge all those
circulating negative reports against any of the candidates to consign them to
the dustbin of history and allow the people to decide the fate of these great
leaders on the merits.
God bless you all.
Ebun-olu Adegboruwa
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