Ondo Gov Akeredolu disowns viral video purporting his return from medical trip

The Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu has debunked social media claims that he is back in the country.

Governor Akeredolu made this known in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde.

Akeredolu in the statement, said that he is still on medical vacation and not yet back in the country while disowning a video circulating on social media and purporting his arrival from a medical vacation to Germany which he embarked on recently.

Governor Akeredolu had in June, 2023, embarked on a 21-day medical leave in Germany and transmitted power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

In his letter to the State Assembly which was received by the Speaker of the House, Olamide Oladiji, the Ondo State Governor was suffering an undisclosed ailment which has led to his inability to effectively function in office, thus, the need to embark on a medical trip.

According to the letter, the governor was to be away from the 7th of June to the 6th of July, 2023. However, he has failed to return to Nigeria several weeks after the expiration of his leave period for an undisclosed illness.

In July, he however forwarded a letter of extension of his medical leave to the state house of assembly, the receipt of which was also confirmed by the speaker, Olamide Oladiji.

But his absence from duty still raises concerns from some residents, especially critics and has equally led to political intrigues and a split in the cabinet.

According to an earlier report in January by Sahara reporters, “Akeredolu was treating an ailment said to be blood cancer (leukemia).”

The report read in part; “the governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu has leukemia, he is really down.”

Meanwhile, Olatunde in a statement said that the governor is still in Germany, focussing on his full recovery.

The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a recent video circulating on social media, suggesting the return of Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, from his medical vacation.

“While we acknowledge the eagerness of the people of the state, as well as supporters and well-wishers from both within and outside the country to have the Governor back, we want to clarify that Governor Akeredolu is currently in Germany, focused on his full recovery.

“Governor Akeredolu extends his deep appreciation to the citizens of Ondo State for their unwavering prayers and support.

“Their genuine concern and compassion have been instrumental in aiding his recovery journey.

” It’s important to note that Governor Akeredolu will return to the state very soon to continue executing his administration’s Redeemed agenda and providing impactful governance.

“His commitment to delivering positive and lasting development remains steadfast.

“The video in question, which is circulating, was captured during the Governor’s campaign tour in preparation for the last Presidential and National Assembly elections.

“Governor Akeredolu is eagerly looking forward to reuniting with the people of the sunshine state.

” He is deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support, and he can’t wait to continue working towards a brighter future for Ondo State. The statement added.