By Abimbola Ogunnaike
The younger brother of Dr Paul Akintelure, one of the governorship aspirants of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo state, who died in the early hours of Tuesday, 26 March, 2024, has said that his death was not natural.
It was gathered that the APC governorship aspirant, a medical doctor, gave up the ghost in Lagos after he had initially raised the alarm over a “serious threat” to his life.
On Thursday, 21 March, 2024, Akintelure alleged that there was a threat to his life ahead of the APC governorship primary fixed for April 25.
Though he did not give details of the threat, he noted he was compelled to voice out and address the matter with “grave concern and a heavy heart.”
He eventually died early Tuesday, 26 March, 2024.
The deceased’s younger brother, Mr Oladapo Akintelure, in an interview with a northern based online medium, said his death was not natural.
According to him, the Ondo politician had been complaining of several illnesses before he finally passed on.
He added that the deceased was admitted to a hospital after being advised to take an urgent break from his campaign to face his health.
“For the past 12 or 14 days, he had been complaining of several sudden illnesses ranging from headaches, back and chest pains.
“He was admitted at a time and had to take a break off campaign to attend to his health. At a time, we were worried and advised him to rest and we moved him to Lagos,” the younger brother said.
Oladapo said he believed the sudden death of his brother was not natural, describing the sad development as unfortunate.
“As a family member, I would not want to say much for now because it is still a shocking moment for us. This is not ordinary but it is unfortunate that we lost him at this critical time,” he said.
Akintelure died at age 61.
Earlier, in a statement sent to reporters in Akure, the family members said they were grieved by his death.
They explained that Dr Akintelure was a visionary leader who believed in the potential of the state and had been advocating for positive change.
“As a family, we understand his sudden enigmatic demise has left a void in our hearts, that of his friends, associates, supporters, and political loyalists.
“It is in light of this we seek calm and, most importantly, your prayers, as we jointly pray for the repose of the soul of Dr. Paul Akintelure.
“DPA’s passion for public service and his unwavering determination to make a difference will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all to strive for a better tomorrow,” the statement read.
