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From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, returned to Nigeria yesterday after three months medical leave.
His wife, Betty, confirmed it in a message on her Facebook page, which had a picture of Akeredolu in a private jet with the caption “homebound.”
“Our boss is back and we are happy, we are meeting and welcoming him in Ibadan and we are on our way now,” another source said at Government House, yesterday.
The source stated that most of the state executive council members were already in Ibadan to receive the governor.
Also, another source who also preferred anonymity confirmed that Akeredolu was already in his Ibadan residence.
“It is true, our governor, Arakunrin Akeredolu, has returned to Nigeria but he is in Ibadan presently. We will make his arrival known to the public soon.”
The source further revealed that immediate family members and friends of Governor Akeredolu had been with him since his arrival in Ibadan to rejoice with him.
In June, he left for Germany to take care of his health, having suffered severe health challenge.
Although the exact ailment was not disclosed, it was speculated that he had cancer of the blood.
Indications of his return emerged yesterday as members of the State Executive Council were seen in joyous mood when the news was broken to them.
It was gathered that the governor will spend some days in his home in Ibadan, Oyo State before moving to Akure, Ondo State. He is expected to be briefed by his cabinet members while in Ibadan.
Akeredolu began medical leave in June and was extended indefinitely by the House of Assembly.
The Governor had transferred power to his Deputy, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in line with constitutional provisions.
Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the verdict of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT), which upheld his victory in the February 25 Presidential Election.
The Governor who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, described the tribunal’s judgement as a revalidation of the people’s mandate and the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
“This judgement has again deepened our nation’s jurisprudence and solidified our commitment to democratic values.
“As true democrats, we must embrace the tents of democracy which also encompass post election litigations. Our struggle for service must also fuel our reverence for democratic values. The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has dispensed Justice. Now is the time to come together and build our nation.
“The renewed hope drive of President Tinubu is anchored on assurance of a paradigm shift. The result of the February 25 Presidential poll, upheld by the Tribunal, represents the will of majority of Nigerians who voted massively for the APC. Our Judiciary has again lived up to expectations. It has reaffirmed our belief that it remains the last hope of the masses. We must collectively commend the pivotal role our Judiciary has played in enriching our democracy and upholding justice.
“Notwithstanding our days in court, we urge the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party Candidate, Mr Peter Obi to sheath their swords and join hands with the President to develop the country. The Tribunal verdict should be accepted in good faith by all lovers of democracy. Our commitment to advancing the national project must be built on national interest which prioritises the good of the people above personal victory.
“Since our collective vision is shaped by our passion for a prosperous nation, let us, therefore, embrace the will of the people and support the President in delivering on his Renewed Hope agenda.” The Governor said.
