Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the late former Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has shared a candid reflection on her late husband’s struggle with cancer, expressing frustration over the focus on spiritual remedies during his illness.
In a recent interview, Betty stressed the critical need for medical care, asserting that her husband’s life might have been prolonged if he had placed greater emphasis on conventional treatment rather than relying on spiritual interventions.
She described the futile efforts of well-meaning individuals who recommended spiritual practices such as “mountain climbing,” “blessed handkerchiefs,” and “olive oil,” none of which produced any meaningful results.
“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 shared during an interview with Star News publisher, Olumide Akinrinlola.
Having personally battled breast cancer, Betty said she has gained a profound understanding of the importance of early detection and medical intervention.
The farmer Ondo First Lady ,who founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria in 1997 to promote awareness and provide support for those affected by the disease, said cancer should be viewed as a medical challenge rather than a spiritual one.
“You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all,” she said.
Regarding the current administration in Ondo State under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Betty criticized its lack of direction and raised concerns about a key reappointment.
While withholding specifics on governance, she alluded to the return of a former finance commissioner who had been dismissed due to financial misconduct under her husband’s tenure.
“You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back,” she remarked.
On the national front, Betty shared her skepticism about the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, stating, “Only those benefiting would say that. You don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that all is not well in the country.”
Betty also reaffirmed her intentions to run for a senatorial seat, expressing her unwavering commitment to her political aspirations.
To those facing health challenges, she urged Nigerians to seek medical care rather than relying solely on faith-based solutions.
“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 emphasized.
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