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Tag: Rotimi Akeredolu

  • I discovered what will prolong my life, and I did it – Akeredolu’s widow reveals what saved her from cancer that killed husband

    I discovered what will prolong my life, and I did it – Akeredolu’s widow reveals what saved her from cancer that killed husband

    The widow of the late Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, Betty, has opened up on how a positive mindset played a crucial role during her battle with breast cancer and saved her from the disease that killed her husband in 2023.

    TheNewsGuru recalls that Akeredolu passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, during a protracted illness in a German hospital at the age of 67 and was laid to rest at the burial site in the community.

    Sharing her experience while commemorating 2025 World Cancer Day, the former First Lady said her experience with the disease is a mixed grill of triumph and lately of grief.

    She further added that her positive mindset played a major role in her surviving cancer.

    She noted that she had to eliminate starchy foods such as pounded yam, eba, Amala, and Akpu from her diet to prolong her life, also stressing how going to seek medical care at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan instead of relying on spiritual healers was crucial.

    She said, “My experience with cancer is a mixed grill, of triumph and lately of grief, having defeated breast cancer 27 years ago and just over a year, on December 26, 2023, I lost my husband, Aketi, to prostate cancer. For this conversation, I will tell my story to inform, inspire and empower the public to take action against cancer as an individual or as a community.

    “To begin with, the major thing that saved me from untimely death at the age of 44 was my mindset or belief. I didn’t believe that my cancer was caused by anybody let alone by spiritual attack. So I didn’t go to church or spiritualist, I went to University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan. My educational status also enabled me to figure out that cancer is medical issue, nothing more. I was right! Doctors at UCH handled my case and if I may add, I presented early at stage 1 of the disease. No lymph node was affected, I got to know the implication as I began to read voraciously some medical publications on breast cancer such as Cochrane publications etc.

    “As I read more and attended international conferences, I understood that my longevity after cancer diagnosis depended on my lifestyle. Looking at my children then and how young they were, I was determined to do everything in my power to live inorder to raise them. If stopping drinking coke and other minerals, swallowing eba, pounded yam, amala and akpu would prolong my life knowing that starchy foods and sugar fuel the growth of cancer, so be it. That was exactly what I did. I stopped drinking minerals, no “swallow” and no bread since 2000!

    “My food includes the following: veggies, smoothies, green tea, lemon and ginger tea, beans, moimoi, fish, chicken, snail, occasional rice and zobo drink. Exercise, especially jogging, a flagship activity of BRECAN organised during Pink October also became part of my healthy lifestyle.

    “Connecting with people especially those with shared experience is critical in bringing emotional support in cancer journey. It is one of the reasons behind founding BRECAN. We now have a community of breast cancer survivors named Team Survivors Nigeria (TSN) for psychosocial support among members and to showcase that breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. Today, I’m proudly a 27 year breast cancer survivor, thriving and still counting!”

  • Ondo Govt declares 2-day public holiday

    Ondo Govt declares 2-day public holiday

    The Ondo State Government has declared Thursday, Feb. 22 and Friday, Feb. 23 as public holidays in honour of the late former Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Tuesday in Akure.

    Adeniran said the two-day holiday will allow people of the state to honour the late former governor with several programmes billed for both days.

    Akeredolu died in Germany on Dec. 27, 2023 and would be buried on Friday in Owo, his hometown, according to the programme released by the family.

    “The two work-free days will allow the people of the state to participate in the burial activities of the former governor,” the statement said.

  • What Peter Obi said after visiting Akeredolu’s family

    What Peter Obi said after visiting Akeredolu’s family

    The Labour Party (LP) Presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the Jericho Ibadan residence of the late Rotimi Akeredolu, former governor of Ondo State.

    Obi, who visited Akeredolu’s family  alongside a well known Professor of Economics, Pat Utomi, said he was in Ibadan to commiserate with the bereaved wife,  Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and the entire Akeredolu family.

    He described the former Ondo State Governor as a principled leader,  patriotic Nigerian and dogged  fighter.

    According to him, Akeredolu as a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), was passionate about building a better and more productive Nigeria.

    “He was a forthright person who stood on the side of the masses at all times,’” Obi said.

    He prayed to God to grant the family, the people of Ondo State and the entire country the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

    On his part, Utomi said the late Akeredolu was his classmate at Loyola College Ibadan in the 1960s.

    He said that the character traits displayed by Akeredolu in the governance of Ondo State had been part of him right from secondary school.

    Utomi said Akeredolu was not one who would keep quiet in the face of oppression and never compromised on justice and equity.

    He condoled with the people of Ondo State on the passing of Akeredolu, describing it as a colossal loss to both the state and the country.

    The deceased’s younger brother, Prof Wole Akeredolu, appreciated Obi and Utomi for the visit and their support for the family.

  • I’ll sustain Akeredolu’s legacies — Aiyedatiwa

    I’ll sustain Akeredolu’s legacies — Aiyedatiwa

    Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has promised to sustain the legacies of his predecessor, late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu

    Aiyedatiwa said this during a candlelight procession organised by members of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA),Ondo State chapter, in honour of late Akeredolu, at Government House, Akure, on Friday night.

    He described Akeredolu as a fearless legal luminary and a dedicated leader.

    The governor said Akeredolu’s commitment to justice and service to the people earned him the title of “Senior Advocate of the Masses.”

    “What you have done this night is commendable; it means all you were doing before, when he was alive, was not eye service but genuine love. This means a lot to me personally.

    “We will ensure we complete all the ongoing projects he left behind,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa appealed for continuous prayers, saying, “All you can do for us right now is to continue to pray for us that God should grant all of us the fortitude to bear this loss.”

    Earlier, NBA Chairman, Akure Branch, Mr Bayo Aina, said the candlelight gathering signified their unwavering commitment to support and perpetuate Akeredolu’s impactful work, even in death.

    Aina said the association would ensure that his legacy remained an illuminating beacon guiding the state’s governance and legal sphere.

     

  • South West Govs to give Akeredolu collective burial

    South West Govs to give Akeredolu collective burial

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has disclosed the former Governor of Ondo State, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu who died on Wednesday would be given a collective burial.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Abiodun disclosed this on Friday following a condolence visit of four governors from the South-West zone to the family of Akeredolu.

    Governors on the condolence call included: Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Abiodun Oyebamiji of Ekiti and the host Governor, Seyi Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal.

    Addressing newsmen after signing the condolence register, Gov Abiodun, who spoke on behalf of others, said that they would be collectively involved in Akeredolu’s funeral ceremony, adding that he truly deserved it.

    The governor said that a joint committee would soon be set up to work with the family and collaborate with Ondo State government to ensure a befitting burial for the late governor.

    “Governors of the south-west states are here to commiserate with the Akeredolu family and Ondo State government, on the passage of our senior colleague and brother, His Excellency, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, who the Lord has called.

    “We are still in a state of shock over Akeredolu’s demise. He was the chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, the positions he he led very courageously, fearlessly until his death.

    “All of us are here, on behalf of our families and the entire people of south-west states to commiserate with the family, people and government of Ondo state.

    “We pray that Almighty God will forgive all his sins. We also pray that God will grant the wife, children, people and government of Ondo state the heart to bear this sad, shocking and painful exit.

    “We recall vividly how he resuscitated the southern governors’ forum meeting in Delta about two-and-a-half years ago and he consistently advocated for the returning of the presidency come to the south.

    “He will be sorely missed by all of us,” Abiodun stated.

  • Ondo State Governor told to abide by rule of law

    Ondo State Governor told to abide by rule of law

    The Ondo State Conscience Movement (OCM), a socio-political group, has urged Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa to always allow the rule of law to reign supreme, as he pilots the affairs of the state following the demise of Mr Rotimi Akeredolu.

    Chairman of the movement, Mr Shalom Olaseni, gave the advice in a congratulatory and condolence message sent to the Ondo State Government and the family of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu on Thursday.

    “May the indomitable spirit of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu inspire and guide the state towards an era of prosperity under the sagacious leadership of the new governor,” he said.

    Akeredolu died on Wednesday after a protracted illness. He had last week transferred authority to his former Deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through the State House of Assembly, to oversee the affairs of the state

    Olaseni said that working in accordance with the law would enable Aiyedatiwa to foster an era of unity, progress and enhanced welfare for the people.

    “In this transitional period, we implore Governor Aiyedatiwa to ascend with courage, fairness, and a resolute commitment to the principles of good governance.

    “The challenges that lie ahead demand not just a leader but a visionary who can navigate the intricacies of our state with sagacity and impartiality.

    “We call on Governor Aiyedatiwa to seize this opportunity to entrench responsive governance and leadership that reflects the aspirations of the people.

    “Selecting a cabinet composed of only the brightest and most capable minds will be crucial in perpetuating the legacy left by Governor Akeredolu.

    “Recognising the leadership vacuum left in the wake of critical health challenges and political rifts, we urge the new governor to swiftly address this by nominating a Deputy-Governor within the constitutionally stipulated time frame,” he added.

    He prayed for the new governor to succeed in his arduous journey as the number citizen of the state, while urging the Akeredolu’s family to take solace in God following the demise of the state’s beloved former governor.

    According to Olaseni, the state government and the resilient people of Ondo are still at loss to the sudden demise of their beloved former governor.

    Akeredolu’s indomitable spirit, courage, and tenacity in the face of relentless grip of ill health have left an indelible mark in the hearts of Ondo people.

    “Governor Akeredolu, a paragon of unwavering determination, navigated the tumultuous waters of his illness with grace and fortitude, embodying the very essence of leadership.

    “Today, we bow our heads in reverence, reflecting upon the tireless efforts he invested in securing the lives of Ondo State citizens, particularly through the visionary Amotekun initiative.

    “His legacy in this regard is not just a chapter in our history but a living testament to the resilience of a man who spoke truth to power.

    “As we mourn the departure of a political titan, let it be known that the Ondo State Conscience Movement stands in unwavering solidarity with those profoundly affected by this loss.

    “We pay homage to Governor Akeredolu’s exemplary service, his foresight, and the enduring impact of his leadership, pledging to carry the torch of his ideals into the future,” Olaseni added.

  • Aiyedatiwa opens up on visit to Akeredolu’s family after emerging Gov

    Aiyedatiwa opens up on visit to Akeredolu’s family after emerging Gov

    Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and state officials on Thursday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Rotimi Akeredolu, former governor of Ondo State, in Ibadan.

    Aiyedatiwa described the demise of the former governor as a great loss, not just to Ondo State and Akeredolu’s family, but to the whole nation.

    He said that both government and entire sons and daughters of the state were currently mourning because everyone in the state was connected to him in one way or the other.

    The governor noted that Akeredolu was one voice that could not be easily forgotten in Nigeria’s history.

    He said that the former governor was a great man of courage who always pursued his conviction with courage, irrespective of circumstances around the issue.

    “We cannot forget him because the legacies he has laid down in Ondo state are all there for all to see.

    “In the areas of security, protection of lives and property, wellbeing of people, infrastructural development, education and health to mention a few, “he said.

    Aiyedatiwa said that the former governor diligently served God, family, friends, Ondo state and his profession.

    “We all know the involvement of the former governor in the christian faith, particularly the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion.

    “He was the chancellor of his diocese and great contributor to the development of the church.

    “We believe in God as author of life because he takes the saints home when it pleases him.Precious in the sight of God is the death of his saints.

    “He has completed his journey, lived a purposeful life and made great impact. We should be praying as his followers to be able to attain the feat he reached while he was alive.

    “From what we have witnessed as his followers, we believe that a crown is waiting for him in heaven and I believe we will meet him again on the day of resurrection in his glorified body.

    “On behalf of the government and good people of Ondo state, we have come to pay our condolences to the family. We want to commiserate and be identified with you on the demise of our late leader, “he said

    Responding on behalf of the family, Pastor Kola Akeredolu, younger brother of the deceased, commended the governor for his demonstration of love toward the family.

    He said that the family would not take the visit for granted.

  • Akeredolu’s death: Ondo Commissioner resigns appointment

    Akeredolu’s death: Ondo Commissioner resigns appointment

    The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing in Ondo state, Raimi Aminu has resigned his appointment.

    In a letter made available to newsmen on Friday in Akure, Aminu said that his decision followed the death of Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,

    He expressed his sincere appreciation to the former governor and the people of the state for the opportunity given to him to serve in different capacities.

    “I write to tender my resignation of my appointment as the commissioner for Infrastructure, Land and Housing with effect from today, Dec. 28, 2023.

    “This decision is anchored on my conscience as my leader and boss, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu joined the saint triumphant.

    “I sincerely thank our dear Arakunrin and the good people of the state for the opportunity to serve in his cabinet as senior special assistant on Lands and Infrastructure.

    “And Special Adviser on Lands, Works and Infrastructure and Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing,” he said.

    On Wednesday two aides resigned their appointments following the demise of Akeredolu.

    The aides are Mr Richard Olatunde, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor (CPS) and Mr Dare Aragbaye, Special Adviser, Union Matters and Special Duties.

  • Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde declares three days mourning for Akeredolu

    Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde declares three days mourning for Akeredolu

    Following the demise of Rotimi Akeredolu,  the Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde has declared three days of state mourning in the state.

    Until his death, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was the Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    Makinde made the declaration on Thursday.

    Makinde also ordered that all flags at public offices in the state be flown at half mast for three days.

    The governor made this declaration in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju.

    The statement read, “Oyo State governor and vice chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared three days of state mourning for the deceased Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    “The governor, who gave this directive on Thursday, equally ordered that all flags at public offices in the state be flown at half mast for three days.”

  • Oborevwori mourns Akeredolu

    Oborevwori mourns Akeredolu

    Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has expressed deep sadness on the passing of Ondo State Governor, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu, at the age of 67.

    Oborevwori’s condolence message is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Wednesday in Asaba.

    He expressed his condolences to Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, family members, the government and people of Ondo state on the passing of the renowned senior lawyer.

    He noted that the late Akeredolu, who was the Chairman of Southern Governors’ Forum, was an urbane and cerebral leader of great value who was progressively committed to the growth and development of Ondo state and Nigeria.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I commiserate with the Akeredolu family, the government and people of Ondo State on the painful passing of my brother governor, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

    “As a senior lawyer and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Akeredolu contributed immensely to the growth and development of the legal profession in the country.

    “Chief Akeredolu paid his dues and had a fulfilling legal career that culminated in his emergence as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association and later as Governor of Ondo state.

    “It is my firm belief that the achievements of the late governor in the legal profession and in the governance of Ondo state will continue to inspire many to take to the legal profession and contribute to nation-building,” Oborevwori said.

    He prayed to God to grant the soul of the legal luminary eternal rest.