Fresh Trouble On Ex-Governor Akeredolu’s Death Over Alleged Poisonous Concoction

The death of former Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, who passed away nearly two years ago in a German hospital while receiving treatment for leukemia and prostate cancer, has recently been shrouded in fresh controversy. This development follows calls to launch a coroner’s inquest into the circumstances surrounding his demise, stirring significant public debate and emotional reactions within the state and beyond.

Background

 

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Governor Akeredolu was known to have been battling serious illnesses that incapacitated him for months and prevented him from completing his second term. His health struggles were initially kept private until January 2023, when his wife, Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, publicly revealed that the former governor’s condition had deteriorated after allegedly consuming a poisonous concoction administered by Bunmi Ademosun, a former special adviser to Akeredolu on Multilateral and Inter-Government Affairs.

Allegations of Poisonous Concoction

The controversy ignited when Mrs. Akeredolu accused Ademosun of secretly administering local herbal remedies to her husband without her consent. This accusation was made public through a leaked video circulated on social media, where the former first lady expressed serious concerns that Ademosun’s involvement was worsening the governor’s health. She warned Ademosun to “stay away” from her husband, emphasizing reliance on western medical treatment rather than unorthodox methods.

Mrs. Akeredolu further alleged that Ademosun’s actions were part of a political scheme to position herself as the deputy governor, a claim that heightened tensions. In response, the Ademosun family issued a statement condemning Mrs. Akeredolu’s remarks and warning that they would hold her accountable for any harm that befell their daughter.

Governor Akeredolu’s Response and Death

Amidst the dispute, the late governor acknowledged his illness publicly, describing it as “not life-threatening” and assuring the public of his recovery. Unfortunately, he died on December 27, 2023, triggering widespread grief and tributes.

Widow’s Subsequent Comments and Further Accusations

Three months after his death, Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu stirred further debate by stating that her husband’s death could have been prevented had he prioritized medical treatment over spiritual practices. This statement was met with backlash, including accusations from Ondo State’s Commissioner for Finance, Omowunmi Isaac, who controversially alleged that Mrs. Akeredolu was responsible for the governor’s death, claiming physical assault led to a fatal brain injury.

These explosive allegations prompted civil society organizations to call for police intervention and demanded proof from the commissioner. The situation deepened political and social tensions within the state.

Political Fallout and Memorial Controversy

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration intensified the unrest by demolishing the memorial park built by the late Akeredolu to honor victims of the June 2022 terror attack in Owo. Mrs. Akeredolu criticized both Governor Aiyedatiwa and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, for dismantling her husband’s legacy without consulting the victims’ families. Her harsh language towards the traditional ruler drew criticism from local residents and supporters of the current government, who viewed her conduct as overbearing.

Calls for Coroner’s Inquest

The ongoing controversies led community leaders and citizens to demand transparency about the former governor’s death. A native of Owo, Adeoye Abiola, publicly urged for a coroner’s inquest, suggesting that the suspicious circumstances warranted official investigation.

In response, Ondo State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, confirmed receipt of petitions from various groups requesting a formal probe into the death. Ajulo emphasized that the coroner’s law exists to address public concerns over unnatural or contentious deaths and stressed the importance of due process without bias.

Public Reactions and Criticisms

The announcement of a possible inquest sparked mixed reactions. Some residents, like Olugbenga Ajongbolo, criticized the move as insensitive to the grieving family and warned that it might destabilize the current administration. Others called for the Attorney General’s resignation, accusing him of stirring unnecessary trouble.

Legal experts and social commentators argued that the probe might tarnish the late governor’s memory and questioned the motives behind the petitions. Former Minister Ademola Adegoroye described the petitioners as agitators and urged the governor to reconsider the investigation to preserve peace.

Conclusion

The call for a coroner’s inquest into former Governor Akeredolu’s death has opened a complex chapter filled with allegations of foul play, political intrigue, and deep-seated community emotions. While the official cause of death was cancer-related complications, the persistent rumors and accusations highlight the fragile nature of political legacies and the profound impact of personal conflicts on public perceptions. As the legal process unfolds, the people of Ondo State watch closely, hoping for truth, justice, and reconciliation to prevail.

 

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