Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo is still recuperating in Germany and will be back soon on his feet, a spokesman for the governor said on Sunday.

This came after a video went viral on social media, suggesting that Mr Akeredolu had been flown back into the state following his long absence to attend to his health challenges.

In the footage seen by Peoples Gazette, Mr Akeredolu alighted from a chopper – putting on a red face cap and wearing camo trousers while walking alongside one of his senior aides, Dare Aragbaiye.

But Richard Olatunde, the chief press secretary (CPS), to the Governor, said the disputed video was filmed during Mr Akeredolu’s campaign tour of the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

“The video in question, which is circulating, was captured during the Governor’s campaign tour in preparation for the last Presidential and National Assembly elections.

“While we acknowledge the eagerness of the people of the state, as well as supporters and well-wishers from both within and outside the country to have the Governor back, we want to clarify that Governor Akeredolu is currently in Germany, focused on his full recovery,” Mr Olatunde said in an electronic statement on Sunday.

The Ondo governor embarked on a 21-day leave on June 7 and was expected to return on July 6.

On June 5, he informed the House of Assembly about his medical leave and asked his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to continue to act on his behalf until his return.

Last month, the Ondo governor again wrote to the Assembly to extend his medical leave abroad, explaining that his request was sequel to medical doctors’ advice on the need for him to take adequate rest after recuperating.

Following the development, residents of the state and concerned citizens have continued to pray for the quick recovery of the governor.

Speaking further in his statement, Mr Olatunde assured that Mr Akeredolu would return to the state any moment soon to continue with his job.

Mr Olatunde said the genuine concern and compassion of the people have been instrumental in aiding his quick recovery since he had been down with health challenges.

He affirmed that the governor was committed to delivering positive and lasting development, just as he’s eagerly looking forward to reuniting with the people of the state following their outpour of love and prayers.

“It’s important to note that Governor Akeredolu will return to the state very soon to continue executing his administration’s Redeemed agenda and providing impactful governance.

“Governor Akeredolu is eagerly looking forward to reuniting with the people of the sunshine state. He is deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support, and he can’t wait to continue working towards a brighter future for Ondo State.”

Last week at an interactive session with journalists in the state, the commissioner for information and orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, confirmed speaking to Mr Akeredolu.

Mrs Ademola-Olateju said the absence of the governor had not disrupted any government activities or governance in the state, stressing that the deputy governor has continued to act.

“At our private discussion. I spoke with the governor and have noticed remarkable healing in his personal health. Mr governor (Akeredolu) would soon be here,” she added.