Unpacking the Truth: A Response to YMSJ's Publication on the Osun State Attorney General

Unpacking the Truth: A Response to YMSJ's Publication on the Osun State Attorney General



My attention has been drawn to a publication by the Yoruba Movement for Social Justice (YMSJ), a social-political group, condemning the Osun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice for attempting to take over the case against Mr. Muniru Adebayo Raji. 


The charges against Mr. Muniru Adebayo Raji was because he called in to contribute to an ongoing radio program to punch and burst the lies of unverifiable loan accusation by Prince Adebayo Adeleke (BANIK) against the government of Governor Ademola Adeleke. 


Mr. Raji reminded BANIK of an uncompleted project he pledged to deliver when he secured a huge contract from the previous government and later on absconded with the part of the contract sum without completed the project and where Mr. Muniru further provided supporting documents to buttress his claim.


BANIK may have felt wronged and every sane person would expect him to also toe the line of honour to prove his innocence on the purported allegations by countering such with evidence-based to discredit Mr. Muniru's claim, instead, he has resulted in filing a petition to the police on criminal defamation of his character against Muniru and this was later charged to Federal High Court, Osogbo.


 While I support the pursuit of justice, I cannot ignore the misinformation spread by this faceless group, led by an unverified State Coordinator, Isa Ojerinde. They claim the Attorney General's actions amount to shielding crime and perversion of justice. However, it is clear they are trying to avoid legal sanctions by discussing a matter already before the court. Their sponsors' interests are evident, and they would do well to err on the side of caution when it comes to ongoing legal matters.


Discussing ongoing legal matters on social media can have serious consequences, including influencing judges or juries, violating court orders, disrupting the legal process, compromising confidentiality or privacy, and being considered contempt of court. To avoid affecting the legality of the discussions and ensure compliance with the rule of law, I offer free legal counsel to guide this unverified group and its sponsors.


The first question is whether the Attorney General has the right to appear in this case. As the Chief Law Officer of the state, does he have the locus standi to represent citizens or residents of Osun who are wrongly alleged or accused? The group's position is irrelevant, as their response is predictable. However, for the sake of the public, I will educate this faceless group on the roles and functionality of the Attorney General's office.


The State Attorney General only has the power to take over state offenses, but with a fiat, they are empowered by law to take over federal offenses on behalf of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). This applies to all 36 states in Nigeria. The AGF has the power to take over federal offenses' prosecution, and the State Attorney-General (SAG) has some powers in this regard.


I direct this faceless group and their coordinators to the Nigerian Constitution (1999) where the AGF and SAG often collaborate on cases, and the SAG having gotten the fiat could take over any federal offenses in the State on behalf of the AGF.


To this end, I wish to let this faceless group know that the current Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice of Osun State epitomizes integrity, consistently upholding moral and ethical principles even in challenging situations. His unwavering commitment to integrity is evident in both his political actions and personal conduct. He treats all individuals with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or beliefs, and remains humble despite his significant achievements and influence.


His actions in this matter serve as a powerful example of integrity in action, demonstrating an unshakeable dedication to ethical principles, justice, and reconciliation. His leadership and commitment to upholding the law and promoting peace are truly commendable, and his integrity has earned him the respect and admiration of all who know him.


I will advise this group to seek more legal knowledge by consulting legal expert for detailed guidance to avoid spreading misinformation and misleading innocent members of the public. 


Thanks.

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