Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has passed away after a prolonged battle with leukemia.
A family source revealed to SaharaReporters on Wednesday that the Governor breathed his last in Lagos.
Akeredolu, aged 67, had been under the care of State House doctors until his demise, as his deteriorating health prevented them from flying him abroad for treatment.
“Akeredolu is dead; he died in Lagos,” the source disclosed.
“They were looking for dialysis machines to be sent to his secret location in Lagos last week.”
The ailing governor returned to Nigeria in September after a three-month medical leave in Germany, only to embark on another leave recently following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to hand over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Aiyedatiwa has been standing in as Acting Governor during this period.
Upon his return in September, Akeredolu faced criticism for attempting to govern from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
His wife, Betty, also announced the suspension of activities planned for her 70th birthday, citing unforeseen circumstances related to her husband’s health.
“Hello, Family and Friends. This is to inform you that all activities lined up to mark my 70th birthday are hereby suspended till further notice due to unforeseen circumstances beyond my control. Sorry for any inconvenience caused by this development.
“Nevertheless, be assured that I will be celebrated in style upon my return. Thank you for your understanding. I remain Arabinrin a.k.a Ada Owere I,” she tweeted.
SaharaReporters had previously disclosed in January that Akeredolu was undergoing treatment for leukemia, a type of cancer affecting the blood-forming tissues.
“The governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu has leukemia, he is really down,” one of the sources in the Alagbaka Government House revealed at that time.
Note that leukemia impairs the body’s ability to combat infections, with symptoms ranging from weakness, fatigue, and bruising to pain in bones or joints.
While various types of leukemia exist, treatment complexity depends on factors such as the type of leukemia.
WebMD Cancer Center notes symptoms may include fever, infections, pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
The passing of Governor Akeredolu is a significant loss, and the state mourns the departure of a leader who dedicated his life to public service.
