Sad News: Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Passes Away After Battle With Leukemia At the age of 67

In a heartbreaking development, Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has succumbed to his battle with leukemia. A reliable family source informed SaharaReporters on Wednesday that the governor breathed his last in Lagos.

It was revealed that Akeredolu had been under the care of State House doctors until his demise, as his deteriorating health prevented him from being flown abroad for treatment.

"Akeredolu is dead; he died in Lagos," the source disclosed. "They were looking for dialysis machines to be sent to his secret location in Lagos last week."

At the age of 67, Akeredolu returned to Nigeria in September after a three-month medical leave in Germany. Recently, he took another leave as directed by President Bola Tinubu, handing over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Aiyedatiwa has been serving as the Acting Governor during this period.

Upon his return to Nigeria in September, Akeredolu attempted to govern from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, sparking public outrage.

On July 9, Akeredolu's wife, Betty, announced the suspension of activities planned for her 70th birthday. The decision was made amid concerns about hosting festivities given her husband's ailing health.

In a series of Twitter posts, she said, "Hello Family and Friends. This is to inform you that all activities lined up to mark my 70th birthday are hereby suspended till further notice due to unforeseen circumstances beyond my control. Sorry for any inconvenience caused by this development."

"Nevertheless, be assured that I will be celebrated in style upon my return. Thank you for your understanding. I remain Arabinrin a.k.a Ada Owere I," she added.

SaharaReporters had earlier reported in January that Akeredolu was battling leukemia. Leukemia, a cancer of the blood characterized by an abnormal increase in white blood cells, severely affected the governor's health.

For leukemia sufferers, the excess white blood cells hinder the production of red blood cells and platelets essential for a healthy body. The cancer compromises the body's ability to fight infections, with various types such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Treatment for leukemia can be intricate and is dependent on the type and other factors. Symptoms include weakness, bruising, infections, pain in bones or joints, headaches, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes.

The passing of Governor Akeredolu marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the political landscape of Ondo State. May he rest in peace.