Amidst circulating reports and a viral video depicting Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s return to Nigeria following a prolonged medical leave abroad, the Ondo State government has stepped forward to provide clarity.
The viral video in question showed the governor disembarking from a helicopter, appearing healthy and vigorous.
However, the governor’s spokesperson Richard Olatunde, said in a statement on Sunday that the footage was taken during the 2023 presidential election campaign.
Olatunde affirmed that Governor Akeredolu is currently still recovering abroad and thanked citizens of Ondo State and well-wishers both within and outside the country for their unwavering support and prayers.
“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.
“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,” Olatunde said.
He added that the Governor would return to the country soon to continue the execution of his administration’s Redeemed agenda and continue to provide impactful governance.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) recalls that Governor Akeredolu had requested an extension of his one month medical leave which he embarked upon since June 5.
The governor’s ongoing health needs prompted him to transmit a letter to the Ondo State House of Assembly, seeking an extension.
Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly Olamide Oladiji, noted: “Following Doctor’s advice on the need to take adequate rest after recuperating, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON, has forwarded the letter of extension on medical leave to the Ondo State House of Assembly.”
Oladiji said the governor’s action was in line with section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ( as amended).
He added that Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa would continue to act as governor until there is a written declaration to the contrary.