Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has passed away.

At the age of 67, the governor of Ondo passed away.

While receiving treatment in a German hospital on Wednesday, at about two in the morning, Akeredolu reportedly passed away.

After fighting leukaemia and prostate cancer, which had prevented him from moving for several months, he passed away.

Background: In October 2020, Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former NBA president, won reelection as the state governor. He took the oath of office for a second term in February 2021.

The governor’s second term began in January 2023, but problems have dogged it ever since he left for an overseas medical leave in June.

After spending months abroad, the 67-year-old politician came back to Nigeria in September and settled in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

More details: On Wednesday, December 13, he proceeded on another medical leave and wrote a notice formally transferring power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa who later assumed the responsibilities of the governor in full acting capacity.

Following his return to Nigeria in September, Akeredolu stayed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital and tried to govern his state from there, leading to public outrage.

On July 9, Akeredolu’s wife, Betty announced the suspension of activities lined up to celebrate her 70th birthday.

The Ondo first lady announced the suspension of the activities in a series of Twitter posts after questions were raised over plans to have a fanfare despite her husband’s ill health.

Betty, in a statement via her X handle, 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.