Aiyedatiwa Deserves National Recognition for Advancing Rule of Law – Ondo Attorney General

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), has praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to judicial independence and constitutional governance, describing him as one of Nigeria's foremost advocates of the rule of law.

Ajulo made the remarks during a discussion with the Publisher of Daily Times Nigeria, Fidelis Anosike, ahead of the newspaper's Centenary Celebration, where 100 distinguished Nigerians are expected to be honoured for their outstanding contributions to national development.

According to the Attorney General, Governor Aiyedatiwa's dedication to judicial reforms, institutional strengthening and improved access to justice makes him deserving of national recognition.

He stressed that no nation can achieve sustainable economic growth, attract significant investment or maintain democratic stability without an independent and well-funded judiciary.

Ajulo noted that the Ondo State governor has consistently demonstrated this understanding by implementing reforms aimed at strengthening the administration of justice across the state.

He said the governor has prioritised judicial autonomy, improved court infrastructure, enhanced the welfare of judicial officers and expanded institutional capacity within the justice sector.

"Investment in the judiciary should never be seen as expenditure; it is one of the most important investments any government can make in constitutional governance and democracy," Ajulo said.

He added that Governor Aiyedatiwa understands that the judiciary remains the constitutional foundation upon which peace, public confidence and democratic legitimacy are built.

The Attorney General also referenced the recent recognition bestowed on the governor by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure Branch, which honoured him as an Ambassador of the Rule of Law.

According to Ajulo, the award reflects growing recognition within the legal community of the governor's efforts to promote judicial independence, strengthen legal institutions and improve the welfare of judicial officers.

He further stated that the administration's reforms have positioned Ondo State among the leading states in advancing the rule of law and improving the justice delivery system.

Ajulo explained that a strong and efficient judiciary plays a vital role in economic development, noting that investors are more likely to commit resources to jurisdictions where contracts are enforced and disputes are resolved fairly and efficiently.

"Economic prosperity and judicial efficiency go hand in hand. Capital naturally flows to places where justice is swift, contracts are respected and the rule of law inspires confidence," he said.

Highlighting key reforms, Ajulo disclosed that the Ondo State Judiciary now enjoys full financial autonomy, describing the achievement as unprecedented in the state's history.

He also revealed that the governor approved improved remuneration for magistrates while supporting legislative efforts aimed at enhancing their professional status and morale.

In addition, Ajulo said the administration expanded the leadership structure of the Ministry of Justice by increasing the number of Permanent Secretaries from one to three and recently recruited more than 40 lawyers into the state's public service.

He described the measures as historic investments that would strengthen institutional capacity and improve justice delivery for years to come.

Responding to suggestions that the reforms could be politically motivated, the Attorney General argued that initiatives which strengthen judicial independence and improve access to justice should be judged by their long-term impact rather than partisan considerations.

"Where reforms strengthen institutions, improve access to justice and benefit future generations, they rise above politics. Good governance does not become less valuable simply because it receives public approval," he said.

Ajulo concluded by reaffirming that his assessment was based on constitutional principles and measurable achievements rather than politics.

"As Attorney General, my primary allegiance is to the Constitution and the rule of law. Whenever government actions strengthen judicial independence and promote the public good, the ultimate beneficiaries are the people," he said.

He maintained that Governor Aiyedatiwa's contributions to the justice sector make him worthy of recognition for excellence in public service and institutional leadership.