Ondo Gov Uses Police to Silence Critic: Lawyer Arraigned for Exposing Corruption and Neglect
In a shocking display of power, the Ondo State Police Command has arraigned Wale Odusola, a legal practitioner, for daring to criticize Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa over allegations of neglect and corruption.
Odusola was dragged before a magistrate court in Akure on Tuesday, February 18, facing a three-count charge after a viral Facebook video where he called out the governor for abandoning his Ilaje people. The lawyer, who refused to back down, pleaded not guilty.
According to the charge sheet, the police outrageously accused Odusola of “emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse” against Aiyedatiwa—an accusation many see as a desperate attempt to criminalize free speech. The real issue? Odusola had exposed how Ilaje LGA, the governor’s own constituency, was sidelined in the 2025 budget, receiving a mere N100 million for a single project, while Owo LGA was handed N3 billion for capital projects.
To make matters worse, Odusola had also alleged that Aiyedatiwa was involved in an extramarital affair with the state’s Commissioner for Finance, Wunmi Isaac. Rather than address the claims, the government opted for a full-blown crackdown.
After being invited by the police on February 12 over a charge of “conduct likely to cause a breach of peace,” Odusola was interrogated and released, only to be arraigned days later in what many believe is a clear case of political persecution. The police even tried to remand him in Olokuta Correctional Facility, but the magistrate, perhaps recognizing the ridiculousness of the case, granted him bail on self-recognition.
The arrest has sparked outrage, with critics calling it a blatant attempt to silence opposition voices. Many are now asking: If a lawyer can be arrested for speaking the truth, what hope is there for ordinary citizens?
C; TSJ
