Ondo State Deserves Special Recognition for June 12 - Ondo AG, Ajulo.
Ondo State Deserves Special Recognition for June 12 - Ondo AG, Ajulo
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, has said that Ondo State deserves a special place in the national reckoning for its exceptional role in the June 12 democratic struggle.
Speaking in an interview at the commemoration lecture of the 2025 Democracy Day, Ajulo emphasised that the state produced some of the most prominent voices and courageous actors in the historic fight for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, especially in the struggle of June 12.
He said, “Ondo State was not just represented, it was deeply entrenched in the movement. Our people, across political, legal, and civil society spheres, stood firm at great personal cost to ensure the return of democratic governance. In my opinion and personal capacity as someone who was a student leader and actively participated in the pro-democracy movement, the sacrifices and contributions of the people of Ondo State remain profound and historically significant.”
Dr. Ajulo, who was part of the struggle as a students leader, also highlighted towering figures such as the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, an indomitable human rights lawyer and activist; Pa Reuben Fasoranti, elder statesman and NADECO chieftain; Basorun Sehinde Arogbofa, respected Afenifere leader; the late Governor Adekunle Ajasin; Bishop Bolanle Gbonigi; Baba Omojola; Baba Arije; Dr. Fredrick Faseun; Iba Gani Adams; Kayode Ogundamisi (Sankara); Baba Duyile; Joseph Akinlaja; Dr. Amos Akingba; Bamidele Aturu; Richard Akinnola; Eni Akinsola, Late Bunmi Ojo and Buska Oladosu, among others, stating that the list is endless.
“Also Omoyele Sowore and Comrade Olaitan Oyerinde, a student leader in who contributed significantly to the pro-democracy campaigns”
He also pointed out that legal luminaries like Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN; Mr. Femi Falana, SAN; Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; and former Governor Kayode Fayemi, who had deep Ondo roots at the time, were vocal defenders of democratic ideals and the rule of law during the struggle.
Dr. Ajulo emphasised that Ondo State has always been a home of progressive politics, dating back to the days of the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the 1950s, when the state embraced visionary policies on education, healthcare, and good governance under the banner of progressive ideology.
Dr. Ajulo further said “As the nation celebrates June 12 and honours its heroes, it is important that the legacy and contribution of Ondo State be recognized and remembered. Our people paid the price for the freedom we all now enjoy.”
He also stressed the significance of democratic ideas, stating that power belongs to the people, their voice not only matters but is the real thing in a democratic atmosphere. He said, “The government of Ondo State, under the able leadership of Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, recognizes this; hence, it has been responsive to the people’s yearnings and aspirations. The State is tolerant of opposing views presented in accordance with the law.”