Ahead of the governorship election in Ondo State, Lagos-based lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has dismissed documents being circulated as extracts of a commission of inquiry on the tenure of Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, as a former Attorney-General of the state, describing them as paste up documents while insisting on merit.

Adegboruwa pointed out that these papers have not been truly certified, as emerging from the proper custody of the Ondo State Government and to that extent, they become documents just flying in the air.

While rooting for the former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), the lawyer stressed that “Mr. Akeredolu has led the prestigious Nigerian Bar Association as its President, most creditably and eruditely, and I personally remain proud of his illustrious tenure, as Bar leader. He was forthright, courageous and impactful.”

He also pointed out that Akeredolu contested for the Governorship of Ondo State in the last election yet, these reports did not stop him from that contest and should therefore, not and cannot stop him now as it is totally in bad taste.

“I will therefore appeal that the candidates of the parties should be allowed to contest the election on the merits, without any scheming or character assassination.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with and appearing in court with all the leading contestants and I testify that they are all men of great repute, distinguished scholars and respectable professionals.

“Eyitato Jegede, SAN, I met and worked with personally whilst he was Attorney General of Ondo State. A perfect gentleman, pure professional and humble public officer per excellence and a very devoted Christian. Like Akeredolu, I can readily vouch for him, any day. He was always on the side of the law and was at one time elected to lead other Attorneys-General nationwide.

“Chief Olushola Oke, a leading legal practitioner and former PDP legal adviser, is an epitome of knowledge, so very caring and hardworking, committed to grass roots development and people friendly. I’ve been working with him personally and professionally for over ten years, by which time I’ve come to know him as a courageous politician and accomplished advocate, so very brilliant and formidable, in and out of court. He has held and excelled in so many public offices, in his lifetime.

“So any of these great men can competently rule Ondo State, if allowed the level playing field to test their popularity with the people, without the influences and scheming of Aso Villa, Alagbaka or Bourdillon.

“I therefore urge all those circulating negative reports against any of the candidates to consign them to the dustbin of history and allow the people to decide the fate of these great leaders on the merits,” Adegboruwa said.

•Photo shows Barrister Adegboruwa.