Florence Sadiku
WIFE of the ailing governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, Betty has announced the cancellation of all activities towards the celebration of her 70th birthday.
Mrs Akeredolu in a Facebook post, early Sunday morning, gave no reason for the decision beyond“unforeseen circumstances beyond my control“
She simply posted:
ANNOUNCEMENT!
Hello Family and Friends.
This is to inform you that all activities lined up to mark my 70th birthday are hereby suspended till further notice due to unforeseen circumstances beyond my control.
Sorry for any inconvenience caused by this development. Nevertheless, be assured that I will be celebrated in style upon my return. Thank you for your understanding.
I remain Arabinrin a.k.a Ada Owere I.
Eighteen-Eleven Media reports that the decision may not be unconnected with the ill health of her husband. The medium recalls that on 13th June Arakunrin Akeredolu handed over the affairs of the state to his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa. 
The Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr Olamide Oladiji, while confirming receipt of a letter for medical leave from Governor Akeredolu explained that the governor asked for 21-day leave for medical treatment abroad starting from 7th June to 6th July.
The Speaker said the leave will be extended to the 6th of July due to the public holidays on the 12th of June (Democracy Day) and Eid el Kabir on the 28th and 29th of June.
He explained that the governor had stated in the letter that his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would act as acting governor for the period he will be away.
The Speaker, who described the governor as a lover of peace and an apostle of the rule of law, wished him a speedy recovery and joyful vacation.
The governor has before then been on an extended vacation and this is widely believed in the state to be connected to his state of health.
A rumour had circulated in the state that Mr Akeredolu was dead, but the state government quickly debunked it.
A video clip was released showing Mr Akeredolu in a home setting watching the English FACup final match between Manchester City and Manchester United played on Saturday 10th June 2023.
Eighteen-Eleven Media