Dora Akunyili died of cancer around 10:00am – Peter Obi

Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi who was in India last month to visit Dora Akunyili has said she died this morning around 10:00am in a Specialist Cancer Hospital in India.

Below is a press statement released by Mr Peter on behalf of Akunyili's family.

"On behalf of the Akunyili's family, I wish to officially confirm the death of Prof. (Mrs.) Dora Nkem Akunyili, OFR, in a Specialist Cancer Hospital in India this morning at 10 am, Nigerian Time, after a two-year battle with cancer".

"In spite her illness, Prof. Akunyili was unwavering in her belief in a better Nigeria. That was why she defied her condition and was part of Anambra State Handover Committee and the National Conference," he said.

"The last time I visited her in India, even when she needed all the prayers herself, she was full of concern for the abducted Chibok girls, security and other challenges facing the country and told me that she remained prayerful for the release of those girls and for God to help President Goodluck Jonathan to overcome all the challenges facing the Nation. She therefore urged all Nigerians to remain prayerful and committed to building a better society for our children. We all prayed together and I promised to be visiting her every month," the statement added.