Betty, the wife of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has taken to social media to celebrate her husband’s birthday while he is currently on medical leave abroad for an undisclosed ailment.
Earlier, SaharaReporters had exclusively reported that Governor Akeredolu was undergoing treatment for blood cancer (leukemia). A source in the Alagbaka Government House had informed SaharaReporters about the governor’s condition, stating that he was dealing with leukemia, which had taken a toll on his health.
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood, characterized by an abnormal increase in white blood cells, hindering the body’s ability to fight infections. Sufferers experience an overproduction of faulty white blood cells that do not function properly, leading to various health complications.
Amidst the ongoing medical situation, Betty shared a picture of the governor on Facebook, expressing her support and gratitude for the well-wishers. She wrote, “Aketi dey kampe! Victory for us! #happybirthday #july20n21.”
Governor Akeredolu was born on July 21, 1956. In light of his medical condition, the Ondo First Lady earlier announced the suspension of activities planned for her 70th birthday celebration. The decision was seen as a response to the criticisms received regarding the celebration.
In a subsequent post accompanied by a photo of her birthday flyer, Betty mentioned that as long as there is life, celebrations can come at any time.
Governor Akeredolu has been on medical leave since June 7, 2023, and has been reported to be receiving medical attention in Ibadan, Oyo State. Due to his deteriorating health condition, he was later flown out of Nigeria for further treatment.
Sources suggested that to protect the governor’s privacy, the family had asked security agents and select politicians around him to refrain from taking pictures using their mobile phones.
The Ondo State government confirmed the governor’s indisposition but clarified that he was still alive and attending to state matters, delegating functions when necessary. The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, issued a statement to address the situation.
On June 7, Governor Akeredolu officially sought medical leave and directed his deputy to act in his capacity during his absence. The deputy governor continues to serve as the acting governor as the leave was extended following the doctor’s advice to allow adequate rest for recuperation.
Governor Akeredolu, a second-term governor under the All Progressives Congress, is expected to complete his tenure in 2024.
(Source: Sahara Reporters)
