Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the new First Lady following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. Pastor Patience Umo Eno sadly succumbed to illness on September 26, 2024, after receiving treatment at a hospital, surrounded by her family. This poignant moment was marked by a condolence visit from the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, who offered her support to the grieving family.
While introducing Helen to the Nigerian First Lady, Governor Umo Eno expressed the challenges that lie ahead. He emphasized the importance of carrying forward the legacy and initiatives of his late wife, stating, “It is not an easy task ahead. But to maintain the Office of the First Lady and carry forward my late wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen, to continue the duties of the office.” He assured that she would collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare.
The governor conveyed his unwavering confidence in Helen’s capability to uphold the values and vision established by her mother. He pledged to sustain the projects initiated through the First Lady’s Office, further reinforcing the continuity of his late wife's work.
In a show of solidarity, Oluremi Tinubu extended her encouragement to Helen, saying, “Helen, your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing, and it’s a blessing that your mom’s colleagues and the Vice President’s wife are here to support you. I know you well, and I believe God will guide you. You will accomplish even more than your mother, and He will grant you good health.”
Addressing speculation regarding his personal life following his wife’s death, Governor Umo Eno firmly stated, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price.” He underscored the irreplaceable nature of his late wife, affirming, “Her legacy will live on in our hearts. She initiated several projects, and that’s why I introduced our daughter, Helen, to the First Lady. She will step in to coordinate the work, ensuring that the Office of the First Lady continues the programmes my wife started.”
The passing of Pastor Patience Umo Eno has left the state in mourning. The state Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, had earlier announced her death, acknowledging the support and prayers the family received during their time of grief. The statement emphasized the Governor's resolve to remain committed to his duties despite this personal loss, while also requesting privacy for the family as they mourn.
Tributes have poured in from across the state, with politicians and citizens alike expressing their condolences for the loss of a compassionate figure who was deeply involved in charitable activities and women's empowerment initiatives. Akwa Ibom residents are coming together to support their governor and his family as they navigate this difficult period. The state government has promised to provide further details regarding funeral arrangements in due course, and the community is expected to continue honoring the legacy of Pastor Patience Umo Eno in the days ahead.
