Betty Akeredolu, widow of former Ondo State governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has taken to Instagram to honour her late husband on what would have been his 68th birthday, a day after marking her own 72nd birthday.
In the emotional post on Monday, the former First Lady of Ondo State described July 21 as a “bittersweet” day, noting that this year marks the first time his birthday is being celebrated without him since his death.
“Today would have been your 68th birthday, Aketi. This is the first birthday you’re not here. Bittersweet. July 21 will never be the same again,” she wrote alongside a photo of the late governor.
Governor Akeredolu died on December 27, 2023, in Germany following a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
He was 67.
The couple, who shared over four decades together, were known for their strong public bond and shared passion for governance, activism and development in Ondo State and beyond.
Mrs. Akeredolu’s tribute comes just a day after she celebrated her own birthday with a defiant and inspirational message about resilience and purpose.
Reflecting on widowhood, survival and personal growth, she wrote, “Two years into widowhood, 28 years a breast cancer survivor—and I’m still standing. Still thriving.”
Governor Akeredolu, a senior advocate of Nigeria, served as governor of Ondo State from 2017 until his death.
He was also a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and was widely respected for his fearless advocacy on national issues including state policing, regional development and constitutional restructuring.
