Former Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili, has dismissed rumours that she is critically ill and presently seeking treatment abroad.

In a message to her friends posted on her Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon, March 25, 2014, Prof. Akunyili, who is a delegate to the on-going National Conference, said even though she was sick at a time, she is “well now, fit, strong enough and ready for this all-important National Conference.” She urged the public to disregard the rumours, saying: “I look forward to collaborating with other delegates to chart the way for a better Nigeria.” Below is the text of her message:

“My Dear Friends, My attention has been drawn to a story making the rounds online claiming that I am seriously sick, currently out of the country and in need of urgent prayers.

“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.

“I thank all my friends for their love and prayers. May Almighty God bless and reward you.”

•Photo shows Prof. Dora Akunyili during yesterday’s session of the National Conference in Abuja. With her are two other delegates, Mamman Misau (left) and Senator Jubril Aminu.