Erstwhile Minister of Information and Director General of thr National Agency for Food, Drug Administration Agency Professor Dora Akunyili startled everyone at the National Confab.
The strong woman known for her firmness and purposeful looking very pale and emaciated, a far cry from her usual vivacious self.
Many delegates could not recognise her at first glance as they were shocked by her almost ghoulish appearance.
Dora who was a failed senatorial candidate in her native Anambra state, at the end of the the day confirmed to newsmen that she has been sick for sometimes, but is now hale and hearty.
In a statement Tuesday, Professor Akunyili said: “This story is baseless, unfounded and the handiwork of mischief makers. It should be ignored 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.
“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. 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.
“I know that God has kept me alive for a purpose, this 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.”