The Ondo State Government has stirred controversy after appointing a group of men, including those accused of attacking pro-democracy activists during the June 12 Democracy Day protest in Akure, as coordinators of commercial tricycle riders in Akure South LGA.
An appointment letter dated September 15, 2025, signed by Comrade Bola Taiwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, confirmed the roles of Robert Tolulope, Oladapo Oluwaseun (aka Choco Milo), Gbenga Aluko, John Oluwatimilehin (aka Gaga), and Faleye Oluwadamilare (aka Aperi). The appointees are tasked with supervising tricycle operators, selling revenue tickets, and submitting weekly reports.
What makes the appointments contentious is the history of some appointees, especially Gbenga Aluko. In June, he was reported by STANDARDDAILYPRESS to have led violent attacks on peaceful protesters, including AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, during the June 12 rally. Eyewitnesses said police operatives stood by as demonstrators were ambushed and beaten.
Aluko’s past adds another layer of concern. In 2020, he was sentenced to death by an Ekiti High Court over cultism, firearms possession, and murder linked to Eiye confraternity killings. Though acquitted in 2023 after a dramatic legal reversal, many still question his rehabilitation and suitability for public assignments.
Critics argue that rewarding individuals with violent pasts undermines democracy and emboldens political thuggery. The government, however, insists the coordinators must focus strictly on maintaining order, ensuring safety, and enforcing compliance within the tricycle sector.
The development has sparked debate across Ondo State, with rights groups warning that legitimizing men with such records could endanger both civic freedom and community safety.
