LAGOS, Nigeria – In a press statement shared with Starnews NG on Tuesda, human rights lawyer and activist, Tope Temokun, has criticised the newly elected governor of Ondo State, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for filing a police complaint against fellow Ilaje kinsman, Barrister Wale Omolegbon Odusola over allegations of cyberbullying.
The complaint stems from a video posted by Odusola on his Facebook page, which the governor claims defamed his character and reputation.
While refraining from commenting on the specifics of the legal charges, Temokun expressed concern over the governor’s reaction to criticism, stating that public officials must develop a thick skin against dissent. “Since assuming the exalted office of governor, your character has become public property,” he noted, emphasizing the necessity for leaders to be open to scrutiny and criticism from their constituents.
Temokun described the governor’s decision to pursue legal action as a “misplaced priority,” particularly for a leader who has recently taken office and is yet to make substantial contributions to governance. “Democracy must admit dissenting voices,” he asserted, highlighting that governance is too serious a matter for any leader to become preoccupied with personal grievances arising from social media posts.
He condemned what he termed the “criminalisation of criticism” and urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to withdraw the complaint, advising him to focus instead on the pressing responsibilities of his office. “The time is very short, and it begins to run now,” Temokun cautioned, stressing the importance of legacy and accountability in leadership.
Temokun reminded the governor that many qualified individuals could occupy the position he holds, stating that citizens should not be silenced for expressing their opinions. “We are all stakeholders in the state, and we will not leave the governor to run the business of the state by sheer wishes,” he proclaimed, reaffirming the commitment of citizens to uphold good governance and hold their leaders accountable.
The statement by Tope Temokun serves as a call for transparency and constructive dialogue in governance, urging public officials to embrace criticism as part of their responsibilities.
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