Ex-Governor Akeredolu’s widow opens up on grief, betrayal after husband’s death

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Former Ondo State First Lady, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has revealed that she battled both grief and betrayal following the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu two years ago, saying the period exposed the true character of some trusted allies and political associates.

In a Facebook post sighted by Western Post on Tuesday, Anyanwu-Akeredolu said losing her husband forced her into an emotional struggle that was worsened by what she described as disloyalty from people she once considered friends and loyal supporters.

“When my husband passed two years ago, I found myself not only navigating grief, but also witnessing betrayal in its most shameless form — from people we had considered friends and political loyalists. It was both shocking and painful. Grief alone is heavy enough; betrayal layered upon loss can feel almost unbearable,” she wrote.

According to her, coping with bereavement was already difficult, but witnessing betrayal at such a vulnerable time shattered her long-held beliefs about loyalty and friendship.

She explained that, with time, reflection, and healing, she realised that holding on to hurt only prolongs suffering, while choosing peace allows emotional recovery and personal growth.

The former First Lady said writing became her major coping mechanism, noting that sharing her thoughts through her online platform helped her process emotions, regain clarity, and rediscover her voice.

Beyond personal reflections, she said her writings now focus on broader societal issues such as gender advocacy, widowhood, girls’ empowerment, public health, community development, and politics.

Anyanwu-Akeredolu added that the journey unexpectedly revealed a new strength in communication and leadership, describing the response from readers as both humbling and fulfilling. She stressed that she has chosen peace and forward movement, noting that true leadership includes mastering one’s inner struggles and rising above betrayal without bitterness while continuing to serve society with compassion.