Betty Akeredolu, the widow of former Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has expressed disappointment over her late husband’s decision to rely on spiritual healing instead of medical treatment in his battle against cancer.
Speaking in an interview with Star News, she dismissed the belief that cancer could be cured through prayers or supernatural interventions, stressing the need for proper medical care.
“You cannot pray away cancer—take my word for it! Cancer develops through four stages, and depending on spiritual rituals instead of seeking medical help only gives it more time to spread,” she stated.
Akeredolu, a zoologist and advocate for science-based healthcare, criticized the use of religious objects like anointed handkerchiefs, water, and oil as alternatives to proper medical treatment.
“If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow today,” she lamented.
She urged Nigerians to prioritize early detection and medical intervention, warning against relying on religious leaders who lack medical expertise.
“A pastor is not a doctor; he doesn’t have the knowledge to treat cancer. He can pray, but prayers alone do not cure cancer,” she emphasized.