Ajulo Describes Allegations Of Contract Racketeering In Ondo As ‘Laughable,’ Reaffirms Focus On Justice Reforms

Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has dismissed recent allegations linking him to contract racketeering in the controversial Judicial Village Project as “laughable.”

Reacting to a petition filed by a civic group, the Movement for the Redemption of Ondo State (MROS), Dr. Ajulo stated that the petition’s authors clearly lacked an understanding of how governance operates in the state.

“The execution and supervision of capital projects, including judiciary-related building infrastructure, fall strictly under the purview of the Ministry of Infrastructure,” he explained. “As Attorney General, my role is to promote and defend initiatives that strengthen the justice sector, not to award or supervise contracts.”

Dr. Ajulo further clarified, “The writers failed to distinguish between the Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice. The Judiciary is an arm of government headed by the Chief Judge, while the Ministry of Justice is a ministry within the Executive arm of government. Our ministry does not handle the execution of building contracts.”

He reiterated that while he supports judicial projects in principle, as part of his mandate to champion access to justice, financial and technical oversight are not within his responsibilities.

Track Record of Service

Since assuming office, Dr. Ajulo has established a reputation for integrity and reform. His achievements as Commissioner for Justice include:

MoMobilising a team of over 273 volunteer senior and junior lawyers to serve as aides, providing legal expertise to Ondo State pro bono.
Spearheading reforms to enhance access to justice and reduce case delays.
Strengthening institutional accountability within the Ministry of Justice.
Enhancing collaboration between the judiciary, executive, and security agencies for more effective justice delivery.
Mentoring young lawyers, creating platforms for professional development and growth.

Sacrifice and National Standing

Before joining the Ondo State cabinet, Dr. Ajulo built a thriving legal practice in Abuja, representing both high-net-worth individuals and international clients. He asserts that stepping away from this lucrative practice was a conscious sacrifice to return home and serve his state.

His commitment to the legal profession extends nationally. Through his dedication and passion for justice, he has become a prominent figure within the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and currently serves as the Chairman of the NBA Mentorship Committee, a position that places him at the forefront of nurturing the next generation of lawyers across Nigeria.

A History of Service

Dr. Ajulo is no stranger to public service. Fifteen years ago, he served as National Secretary of the Labour Party, a position he later voluntarily resigned to focus on his professional career. Observers note that his decision to accept a role in Ondo politics, after having held such a national position, is motivated by a genuine desire to serve rather than personal ambition.

Envy and Integrity

Political analysts suggest that this renewed attempt to implicate him in corruption allegations is a consequence of his rising profile, close working relationship with the Governor, and his visible reforms.

About a week ago, another Civil Society organisation raised concerns about a sinister plot to implicate Ajulo and some top government officials in a contract scam, allegedly due to their perceived closeness to Governor Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State.

His admirers, however, believe these allegations are baseless and cannot withstand scrutiny given his professional and personal integrity. “History will remember Dr. Ajulo favorably,” said one supporter, “because he prioritised service to his people over personal gain. That decision alone speaks louder than any smear campaign.”