Photo Of Emaciated Dora Akunyili Sparks Internet Frenzy

A photo showing an emaciated former Minister of Information, Professor Dora Akunyili, today sparked a major frenzy on social media platforms, forcing her to issue a statement on her Facebook page to rebut reports she is seriously sick, out of the country and needing prayers.

“This story is baseless, unfounded and the handiwork of mischief makers,” the outspoken ex-Director General of the National Agency for Foods and Drug Administration wrote, calling for it to be disregarded and discarded in its entirety.  “As every informed Nigerian knows, I am a Delegate to the National Conference currently holding in Abuja. I was duly accredited as a Delegate and I am currently in attendance at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja, venue of the conference.”

The picture making the rounds on the Internet shows a skinny version of the normally robust-looking champion of ‘Rebrand Nigeria.'  In her statement, she confirmed that she did suffer a major disease that had led her to lose a lot of weight.

Sources told SaharaReporters that the former minister was stricken with cancer, for which she received treatment in the United States for several months. Mrs. Akunyili did not respond to our text message requesting her reaction to that report.

“While it is true that I recently came out of a major sickness, for which I thank Almighty God for delivering me, I have since been declared fit by my doctors and returned to my normal activities,” her statement said.  “I shed much weight in the course of the sickness – which is normal – but I am well now and only need time to re-grow some flesh. There is nothing to worry about either my health or my present stature.”

Thanking all of her friends for their love and prayers, she asserted her faith that God has kept her alive for a purpose, the National Conference being part of that purpose.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I am well now, fit, strong enough and ready for this all-important National Conference and I look forward to collaborating with other delegates to chart the way for a better Nigeria.”
Saharareporters