• Betty Akeredolu
• Breast Cancer

BETTY AKEREDOLU: SEEKING MEDICAL CARE, NOT SPIRITUAL HEALERS, WAS MY SAVIOR

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  Nicolas Adekeye / 3 weeks
• 0
• 2 min read

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has emphasized the importance of seeking medical care over spiritual healing, citing her own experience with breast cancer and her late husband’s battle with prostate cancer. Diagnosed with breast cancer 27 years ago, Mrs. Akeredolu credits her decision to seek medical care, rather than relying on spiritual healers, for her recovery. “If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow,” she said, referring to her late husband, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away on December 23, 2023. Mrs. Akeredolu described her husband as religious, while she was “wired differently” and had no apologies for it. When asked about her views on prayers and spiritual assistance during her husband’s illness, Mrs. Akeredolu expressed skepticism. “What came out of their mountain climbing, ‘blessed’ handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, etc., from the GOs and all the noisy prayers like people possessed by demons?” she questioned. Mrs. Akeredolu, who has been open about her own battle with breast cancer, stressed that nobody can pray away cancer. “You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all,” she said. “Cancer progresses over time and in four stages. Climbing mountains or performing rituals is simply a waste of time while cancer cells are multiplying. The earlier you detect, present, and treat it, the better your chances of survival.” The former First Lady advised the public to prioritize medical care over spiritual healing. “Don’t waste your time running to any pastor. A pastor is not a doctor; he understands nothing about cancer. He can only pray, and prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor—not just any doctor, but a doctor who specializes in cancer cases.” Mrs. Akeredolu also shared her thoughts on the role of spiritual beliefs in healthcare. “Recognizing that spiritual or religious beliefs are like an opiate for many Nigerians, it would be foolhardy to advise otherwise. My take is that while people may believe in whatever they want, they should consult a doctor when faced with health challenges.” In addition to her advocacy for medical care, Mrs. Akeredolu expressed her intention to pursue her senatorial ambition. She also criticized the administration of her husband’s successor, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, describing it as “rudderless”.