Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former First Lady of Ondo State, has spoken openly about the death of her husband, former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. She expressed deep regret, stating that his reliance on spiritual interventions instead of medical treatment may have contributed to his passing.
In an exclusive interview with Star News publisher Olumide Akinrinlola on Thursday, Betty shared that if her husband had taken her advice and focused on proper medical treatment, he might still be alive today.
“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,” she said.
As a breast cancer survivor herself, Betty recounted her personal experience with the disease, noting that early detection and medical intervention had been key to her survival. She established the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria in 1997 to educate and support others facing similar battles.
She strongly dismissed the belief that cancer is a spiritual attack, stating, “You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all.”
Turning her attention to Ondo State’s political landscape, she criticized the current administration under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, calling it “rudderless.” While she did not go into extensive detail, she expressed concern over the reappointment of a former finance commissioner who had been removed for financial misconduct during her husband’s tenure.
“You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back,” she noted.
When asked about the state of the country under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, Betty did not hold back in her response. “Only those benefiting would say that. You don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that all is not well in the country.”
Regarding her political future, she reaffirmed her commitment to running for a senatorial position, stating that she remains dedicated to her ambition.
Offering words of advice to those battling serious illnesses, she urged Nigerians to seek proper medical care rather than relying solely on religious leaders for healing.
“A pastor is not a doctor; he understands nothing about cancer. He can only pray, and prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor—not just any doctor, but a doctor who specialises in cancer cases,” she warned.
