AKURE, Nigeria – Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has extended his medical leave following advice from his physicians.
The development was confirmed in a letter on Monday, July 10, 2023, sent to the state House of Assembly.
The first lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, had revealed in a controversial voice note that went viral early in 2023 that the governor was suffering from an undisclosed form of cancer.
The letter stated that Akeredolu’s decision to extend his leave is based on his doctors’ recommendation to take adequate time to recuperate fully before resuming his official duties.
The letter, however, did not stipulate the duration of the extended leave.
In Akeredolu’s absence, Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will continue to serve in an acting capacity until the governor’s return.
The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, who received the letter, commended Governor Akeredolu for complying with constitutional provisions by officially informing the Assembly about his extended leave.
He noted, “Following the doctor’s advice on the need to take adequate rest after recuperating, Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu has forwarded the letter of extension on medical leave to the Ondo State House of Assembly. His action aligns with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”
The Speaker expressed his gratitude for the governor’s speedy recovery and wished him well in his continued recuperation process.
Governor Akeredolu initially informed the Ondo State House of Assembly of his intention to proceed on medical leave in a letter dated June 7, 2023.
He was initially expected to resume his duties on July 6, 2023, but further rest was advised by his medical team.
The governor’s prolonged absence has stirred concern among Ondo State residents who eagerly anticipate his return to official duties.
