Former Ondo State First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has openly criticized the heavy reliance on spiritual interventions in her late husband, former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s cancer treatment, saying it may have cost him his life.
In an exclusive interview with Star News publisher Olumide Akinrinlola, Betty expressed regret that the late governor did not prioritize medical treatment over spiritual practices during his battle with cancer.
“If Aketi had listened to me and focused on medical treatment instead of relying on mountain climbing, blessed handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, and noisy prayers, I wouldn’t be a widow today,” she said.
Betty, a breast cancer survivor and founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), emphasized that cancer is a medical issue and not a spiritual attack. She urged Nigerians facing health crises to seek medical intervention rather than turn to faith healers.
“You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all,” she stated. “A pastor is not a doctor. He understands nothing about cancer. He can only pray, but prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor who specializes in cancer cases.”
Betty also addressed the current administration in Ondo State under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, describing it as “rudderless.” She criticized the reappointment of a former finance commissioner previously sacked for financial misconduct under her late husband’s administration.
“You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back,” she said, hinting at underlying issues but declining to comment further on the state’s governance.
On the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu, Betty stated, “Only those benefiting would say all is well. You don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that the country is struggling.”
Despite the personal challenges she has faced, Betty reaffirmed her senatorial ambition, saying she remains committed to her political goals and will continue to advocate for better governance and healthcare awareness.
Known for her advocacy work in breast cancer awareness, Betty’s message was clear: health crises must be addressed with science and proper medical care, not solely through spiritual means.
Her words serve as a stark reminder of the importance of early detection and medical intervention in the fight against cancer, a message she has championed since founding BRECAN in 1997.
