Ajao’s Widow Petitions Ondo Chief Judge, Accuses Justice of Breach of Professional Conduct
Mrs. Titilayo Ajao, the widow of the late Taoheed Ajao, has formally petitioned the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, seeking the transfer of a pending trial involving her and some members of her deceased husband’s family. The case, which is currently before Justice P.O. Ikujuni of the Ondo State High Court, Ondo Judicial Division, has been embroiled in controversy following allegations of judicial misconduct by Mrs. Ajao.
In her petition dated December 2, 2024, Mrs. Ajao accused Justice Ikujuni of serious breaches of the code of conduct for judicial officers, claiming that the judge violated the principles of natural justice, equity, and good conscience. She further alleged that Justice Ikujuni had demonstrated unashamed bias against her throughout the proceedings, abusing his position as a Judge of the Ondo State High Court.
The petition specifically pointed to an incident on November 12, 2024, when Mrs. Ajao contended that the judge’s actions in the court demonstrated an overwhelming partiality that compromised the integrity of the trial. Mrs. Ajao stated that Justice Ikujuni’s behavior was not only unprofessional but also a clear violation of the ethical standards expected from the judiciary, thus undermining public confidence in the fairness of the judicial process.
According to Mrs. Ajao, it has become evident that Justice Ikujuni’s continued involvement in the case would not be in the overall interest of justice. The petitioner emphasized that the apparent bias exhibited by the judge makes it impossible for her to receive a fair trial under his supervision.
In her petition, Mrs. Ajao has called on Justice Odusola to urgently intervene and transfer the matter to another judge, arguing that such a step is necessary to uphold the sanctity of the judicial system and to ensure that justice is served without undue influence.
The case, revolves around a family dispute following the death of Taoheed Ajao.
As the situation continues to unfold, Mrs. Ajao and her legal representatives are hopeful that a reassignment of the case will ensure a fair hearing, free from any perceived or actual judicial bias.
