The Ondo State Government has raised concerns over the retention of its assets by private individuals, a year after the death of former governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Kayode Ajulo, issued a directive on Friday, urging those unlawfully holding on to government property to return them immediately or face legal action.

In a statement released in Akure, the state capital, Ajulo expressed dismay at the situation, stating that the state’s assets had been “unlawfully transferred into private hands” since the former governor’s demise.

“One year after the untimely passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a significant portion of the state’s assets had been unlawfully transferred into private hands. This is unacceptable,” the statement read.

Ajulo further highlighted concerns following a review of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration over the past year, describing the situation as untenable.

“As the chief law officer of the state, I must ensure that Ondo State operates within the framework of our constitution and laws. Our law enforcement and regulatory agencies must be fully accountable,” he noted.

The Attorney General also criticised attempts to obstruct Governor Aiyedatiwa’s efforts to obtain critical information, cautioning against tactics such as blackmail and unfounded accusations targeting the governor and his commissioners.

He said, “Only the guilty should fear.”

Ajulo alleged that some vested interests had accused Aiyedatiwa of tarnishing the legacy of the late Akeredolu and targeting his family. However, he described these allegations as diversionary, pointing to their refusal to address the substantive issues.

“Arakunrin Akeredolu I knew would never have allowed state funds to be exploited like this,” he stated, emphasising the need for accountability.

Ajulo urged those implicated in the alleged misappropriation of assets to come forward and return them, warning that failure to do so would attract severe legal consequences.

He also called for a comprehensive audit of state assets to restore due process and ensure public resources benefit all citizens of Ondo State.