After three months, Akeredolu returns to Nigeria, heads to Ibadan

• Meets cabinet, lawmakers, others today

Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has returned to Nigeria after a three-month medical leave in Germany. The Guardian learnt Akeredolu arrived in the country via Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at noon, yesterday.

The governor had travelled to Germany in June for medical treatment, leaving affairs of the state in the hands of his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, after transferring power to him in an acting capacity.

Confirming the arrival, his wife, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, in a terse message on her social media handle, had posted a picture of her husband with a caption: “Homebound!” Findings revealed that Akeredolu will, from Abuja, head to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, before coming to Ondo State.

Also confirming the development, a top source close to Akeredolu said the governor’s inner political circle will meet with him today in Ibadan.The insider, who craved anonymity, disclosed that politicians had received a message to converge on the city, where the governor will meet with them by 1:00 p.m.

He said: “Not everyone in the government received the message. No one can even say the exact person that sent the message. It is when we get to Ibadan that we will know all those who have been invited. I must tell you, we’re so happy to receive Oga (Akeredolu) back.”

Another source revealed that the meeting will involve all members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly. The source added that Akeredolu will arrive in Ondo State next week.

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Richard Olatunde, could not be reached to confirm the governor’s arrival or details of the meeting. During his absence, rumours regarding the governor’s health had stirred anxiety among residents of the state, even as the nature of his ailment remained undisclosed.

Following news of the arrival, social media space in the state had begun buzzing with observers saying the comeback will significantly impact the political landscape of the state.

According to a leader of the ruling party in Ondo, Akeredolu’s return is expected to rally party members and supporters, bolstering confidence and providing direction ahead of the 2024 governorship election.