ABUJA, Nigeria — Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has returned to Nigeria after spending several weeks on medical leave in Germany.
The governor’s flight touched down at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 3:20 p.m., dispelling lingering rumors about his health status.
The governor traveled in a private jet operated by United Aviation with flight number N728LB.
Sources informed that although the governor landed in Abuja, he would be immediately flown to Ibadan Airport for unspecified reasons.
“Immigration officials will only stamp his passport in Abuja since he is just coming into the country. He will then be immediately flown to Ibadan Airport, possibly for onward movement, or maybe he will spend the remaining days of his extended medical leave in his Ibadan home,” said a source close to the matter.
This has led to speculation that the governor might continue his recovery in Ibadan rather than return directly to Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
Another source further clarified, “This much is clear since he will not be flying to Akure where there is a local airport. He will possibly stay in Ibadan.”
Governor Akeredolu had left Nigeria for Germany on May 31 to seek medical treatment, amidst concerns over his deteriorating health.
To squash the rumor mill, pictures and videos of the recuperating governor were periodically released on social media.
While he was away, Akeredolu had formally written to the Ondo State House of Assembly to request an extension of his medical leave.
His deputy, Lucky Ayedatiwa, has been acting governor for over three months in his absence.
The governor’s return is expected to quell concerns about his health and capability to continue in his role.
However, his immediate plans post-arrival remain a speculation, sparking curiosity about whether he will return to Akure to resume his official duties or continue his recovery in Ibadan.
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 return of Governor Akeredolu also raises questions about the state of healthcare facilities in Nigeria, as another high-profile individual seeks medical care abroad.
Critics argue that the frequent travels by politicians for medical treatment underscore the urgent need for healthcare reforms in the country.
