Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the former First Lady of Ondo State, has shared her thoughts on her late husband, former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s battle with cancer, expressing strong disapproval of relying solely on spiritual interventions.
In an exclusive interview with Star News publisher Olumide Akinrinlola on Thursday, Betty stated that had her husband prioritized medical treatment over spiritual practices, she believes his life could have been extended.
“What came from their mountain climbing, blessed handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, and all those loud prayers like people possessed by demons? If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow,” she remarked.
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Betty, a breast cancer survivor, shared how her knowledge of cancer biology and early detection led her to establish the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria in 1997.
She stressed that cancer should be approached as a medical issue, not as a spiritual attack. “You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer,” she declared.
Regarding Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration in Ondo State, Betty described it as “rudderless” and expressed concerns over a particular appointment.
While she refrained from commenting on specific governance matters, she pointed out the reappointment of a former finance commissioner, who had been dismissed for financial misconduct during her husband’s tenure. “You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back,” she said.
When asked about the current federal government under President Bola Tinubu, Betty responded, “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 senatorial aspirations, expressing her unwavering commitment to pursuing her political ambitions.
In offering advice to those facing health challenges, she urged Nigerians to seek medical attention rather than rely on faith healers. “A pastor is not a doctor; he knows nothing about cancer. He can only pray, and prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor—not just any doctor, but a specialist in cancer,” she cautioned.
