Betty Akeredolu: My Husband Would Still Be Alive If He Had Listened to Me

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has claimed that her late husband, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, might still be alive if he had followed her advice.

In an exclusive interview with StarNews Publisher Olumide Akinrinlola, Betty Akeredolu reflected on her husband’s battle with prostate cancer, which led to his death on December 23, 2023. She emphasized her strong belief in medical treatment over spiritual interventions, stating that her own recovery from breast cancer 27 years ago was due to seeking proper healthcare rather than relying on religious practices.

Addressing the role of faith in her husband’s treatment, she questioned the effectiveness of religious rituals, saying, “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? If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow.”

Betty Akeredolu also criticized the current administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, describing it as “rudderless.” When asked about allegations that the state’s finance commissioner was running the government, she declined to comment directly but hinted at political maneuvers, noting that the commissioner had been previously sacked during Akeredolu’s first term.

On her political future, the former First Lady confirmed her intention to pursue a senatorial seat, signaling her continued involvement in the political landscape.