Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has delivered his first public address following the passing of his wife of 38 years, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno, describing her as “everything a man could ever wish for in a virtuous woman.”
In an emotional broadcast to the people of Akwa Ibom State on Friday, October 4, Governor Eno reflected on his decades-long partnership with the late First Lady, who died on September 26 after battling an undisclosed illness.
“My prayer partner, counsellor, cheer-leader, best critic, homemaker, and permanently smiling. I will miss her for a lifetime,” the Governor said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Addressing concerns about the continuity of the late First Lady’s initiatives, Governor Eno offered reassurance:
“The Golden Initiative for All, as well as all other initiatives she had started, will be sustained and expanded.”
He emphasized that government operations would continue uninterrupted, stating that “the machinery of State will continue to function seamlessly.”
The Governor acknowledged an overwhelming outpouring of support from across Nigeria, particularly highlighting President Bola Tinubu’s personal involvement. “President Tinubu sent an uplifting message of condolence and personally called,” he noted.
Special mention was made of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s support, with Governor Eno praising “the motherly role she played since my wife fell ill till her demise.”
The broadcast revealed the depth of national solidarity, with prominent figures including former Akwa Ibom governors Victor Attah and Udom Emmanuel, alongside Senate President Godswill Akpabio, offering their condolences.
Drawing strength from his faith, the Governor quoted 2nd Corinthians 4:8-10, reflecting, “Yes, we are perplexed by the death of my dear wife, but we are not in despair, as all things lay bare before God.”
The Governor indicated that burial arrangements would be announced “at the appropriate time,” while affirming his commitment to maintaining his late wife’s legacy of service to the state.
The late Mrs. Eno, was widely recognized for her humanitarian work and development initiatives across Akwa Ibom State.
Her passing has drawn condolences from political, religious, and social leaders nationwide, highlighting her significant impact on the state’s development trajectory.
