Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has passed away, according to information received from a family source on Wednesday.
The governor reportedly died in Lagos, where he was being treated by State House doctors, as efforts to transport him abroad were impeded.
Saving Point Media reports that, Akeredolu, aged 67, had returned to Nigeria in September following a three-month medical leave in Germany.
Recently, he had taken another leave as directed by President Bola Tinubu, handing over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who has been acting as the governor.
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Upon his return to Nigeria in September, Akeredolu attempted to govern from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, leading to public outcry.
The governor’s health had been a matter of concern, and in July, activities planned for his wife Betty’s 70th birthday were suspended due to unforeseen circumstances related to his health.
Saving Point Media had previously disclosed in January that Akeredolu was undergoing treatment for leukemia, a type of blood cancer that disrupts the body’s ability to fight infections.
Leukemia, characterized by an abnormal increase in white blood cells, can lead to a shortage of red blood cells and platelets essential for health.
The governor’s symptoms included weakness, easy bruising or bleeding, severe infections, pain in bones or joints, and other indicators such as headaches, vomiting, seizures, weight loss, night sweats, shortness of breath, and swollen lymph nodes or organs like the spleen.
Despite efforts to manage the condition, Akeredolu’s health reportedly deteriorated, resulting in his demise in Lagos.
The passing of the governor marks the end of a challenging period marked by health struggles, medical leaves, and public concern over the leadership of Ondo State.
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