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| Wole & Betty Akeredolu. |
The widow of the late former Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has been reintegrated into the Akeredolu family.
This
decision was made by the Emeabiam Community in Owerri West Local Government
Area of Imo State, who handed her over to her late husband’s younger brother,
Professor Wole Akeredolu.
Rotimi Akeredolu, who
passed away in December 2023 after a battle with cancer, was succeeded by his
deputy, Lucky Ayedatiwa, and was laid to rest in February 2024. Shortly after
his burial, the traditional Mgbafu Mkpe ceremony for Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu,
the late governor’s widow, took place on Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Owerri West
Local Government Area.
The
ceremony reached its climax when the Umuegeolu kindred formally handed Betty
over to Professor Wole Akeredolu, indicating the family’s desire to continue
having her within their fold after her husband’s demise. Prior to this symbolic
gesture, customary offerings of kolanuts, palm wine, and a she-goat were
presented to the Umuegeolu kindred by the Akeredolus, adhering to tradition.
In
response, Professor Wole Akeredolu expressed gratitude to the Umuegeolu kindred
and the entire Emeabiam Community for their hospitality. He affirmed the
Akeredolu family’s commitment to continue caring for Betty, acknowledging the
support received during the mourning period and the interment ceremony held in
Owo.
The
former first lady, attired in a black gown with white stripes and dark
sunglasses, symbolizing the ongoing mourning period, remained silent throughout
the ceremony. Attendees included members of the Umuegeolu family, Nde Mgboto Emeabiam
(Daughters of the soil), and Oha n’Ikoro Emeabiam (Elders Council).
The
Mgbafu Mkpe ceremony, a traditional Igbo practice, signifies the transition of
a widow back to her husband’s family following his passing. It involves the
mutual agreement between both families, with rituals performed accordingly.
Culled from https://applesbite.com/.
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