Former Ondo State First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has expressed deep regret over the passing of her late husband, former Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, attributing his death to reliance on spiritual interventions rather than medical treatment for his battle with prostate cancer.
In an exclusive interview with Star News publisher, Olumide Akinrinlola, Betty Akeredolu revealed that her husband’s insistence on spiritual remedies instead of prioritizing medical care ultimately shortened his life.
.
“If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow today,” she lamented, referring to the late governor by his nickname.
Responding to criticisms that she had rejected prayers and spiritual assistance during her husband’s illness, Betty Akeredolu dismissed such practices as ineffective against cancer.
“What came out of their mountain climbing, ‘blessed’ handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, etc., from the GOs and all the noisy prayers like people possessed by demons?” she rhetorically questioned. “If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow.”
Reflecting on her own experience as a breast cancer survivor and founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria in 1997, Betty emphasized the importance of viewing cancer as a medical issue rather than a spiritual attack.
“You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all,” she asserted firmly, advocating instead for regular cancer screenings and prompt medical intervention if symptoms arise.
Betty Akeredolu, who holds a background in Zoology with a focus on genetics and cytogenetics, stressed her academic foundation in understanding cancer biology.
“It became practically impossible for me to believe that cancer could be caused by juju or spiritual attacks,” she affirmed.
Regarding her current endeavours, Betty says she remains actively involved in aquaculture research, particularly in applying solar energy to enhance fish production.
She expressed fulfillment in contributing to agricultural innovation despite the challenges posed by power supply in Nigeria.
Commenting on political matters, Betty described the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Ondo State as “rudderless,” raising concerns about key appointments.
While refraining from detailed governance critique, she noted the reappointment of a former finance commissioner previously dismissed for financial misconduct during her husband’s tenure.
On the national front, Betty expressed skepticism about the current Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu, remarking, “Only those benefiting would say that. You don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that all is not well in the country.”
Despite the challenges, Betty reaffirmed her commitment to her senatorial ambition, underscoring her determination to pursue political goals aimed at broader societal impact.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
