…Illegal producers distributors to face full weight of the law
The Ondo State Government says it is reviewing the regulatory framework governing the preparation, production, distribution, sale and consumption of locally prepared herbal and alcoholic products in the state.
The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, disclosed this in Akure on Sunday while reacting to the recent incident involving the suspected consumption of harmful alcoholic and herbal concoctions.
Ajulo said the review was aimed at identifying possible gaps in the existing regulatory system and determining appropriate legislative, regulatory and administrative measures to strengthen oversight of the sector.
He disclosed that he had formally written to the Chief Judge of Ondo State requesting the constitution of a Coroner’s Court to investigate the deaths linked to the incident.According to him, the inquest would examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and establish, based on evidence, their immediate and remote causes.
The Attorney-General stressed that the government’s responsibility went beyond determining what happened, saying it was also necessary to establish why the incident occurred, whether it could have been prevented and what measures should be introduced to avert a recurrence.
He explained that the review of the regulatory framework had been under consideration before the recent incident, noting that some stakeholders and concerned citizens had already submitted a draft proposal on regulations governing the sector to his office.
Ajulo acknowledged the contribution of journalist Mr. Goke Oluwole, who, he said, had experience in the regulation of the sector and contributed to the development of the proposed framework.
The Commissioner assured that where evidence establishes criminal responsibility, appropriate legal action would be taken in accordance with the Constitution and the law.He stressed that no individual would be shielded from investigation because of status, influence or connections, while also emphasising that nobody would be condemned without due process.
Ajulo said the government’s response would be anchored on truth, accountability and prevention, adding that the authorities must establish the truth for the bereaved families, ensure accountability where responsibility is proven and strengthen the system to prevent similar tragedies.
He expressed sympathy to the families who lost their loved ones and prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved, while wishing those receiving medical treatment a full recovery.The Attorney-General concluded that the state owed the deceased the truth, the bereaved justice and the living a safer tomorrow.
