The Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, on Monday described as an unfortunate the misconception of issues sorrounding his 273 appointees.
Ajulo explained that most of the appointees are honorary and so not entitled to collect a dime from Ondo State government.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN made the clarification following some criticism that greeted the disclosure of the appointments.
Clarifying the celebrated appointments, Ajulo on Tuesday said the lawyers willingly offered to serve the state as a gesture of goodwill and not for any compensation from the state.
Ajulo in a statement titled, “t’s an unfortunate misconception of issues” stressed that any compensation the appointees received will not be provided by the state government.
He stated: “Most of these designations are purely honorary, indicating that the lawyers do not have any right to receive financial remuneration or employment advantages from the Ondo State government.
“Most of the lawyers who have been appointed are renowned, trusted and experienced lawyers and jurists who have willingly decided to contribute their services to Ondo State as a gesture of goodwill, and any compensation they receive will not be provided by the Ondo State Government. “
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria had disclosed the appointment of 273 lawyers as advisers, while also announcing his eight-point agenda in office.
He said “Upon assuming the position of Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State, a total of 273 lawyers, comprising both seasoned professionals and junior colleagues, eagerly presented a multitude of ideas to lend their support to me in serving the government and people of Ondo State.
” I have graciously appointed all the 273 lawyers, dividing them into two categories: Honorary Advisers and Technical Advisers to the Honorable Attorney General & Commissioner of Justice of Ondo State.
Furthermore, the terms of engagement I propose are remarkably innovative.” The Commissioner added.
The appointment of these individuals, who will be officially named in due course, is a significant commitment aimed at enhancing the provision of excellent, independent, and ethical legal services to Ondo State and protect the rights of its people.
The appointees are lawyers who have distinguished themselves in law practice, bench(retired), government, academia, social work, among others.
They will provide invaluable guidance to reinforce the vision of the Office of the Attorney-General of Ondo State to be the best public law office in Nigeria.
