In an emotional first address since the tragic passing of his beloved wife, Patience, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State poured out his heart to the people of the state on Friday, October 4. Mrs. Eno, who passed away on September 26 following an undisclosed illness, was remembered by the governor as a pillar of strength in both his personal and public life.
Speaking with deep sorrow, Governor Eno described his late wife as “everything a man could ever wish for in a virtuous woman.” He further stated, “My prayer partner, counsellor, cheer-leader, best critic, homemaker, and permanently smiling. I will miss her for a lifetime.”
The governor and his late wife had been married for an impressive 38 years, a partnership that he cherished deeply. In his heartfelt tribute, he emphasized the immense role Mrs. Eno played, not only in their family but also in her community, through her various charitable initiatives. Despite the pain of her sudden loss, the governor reassured the people of Akwa Ibom that her cherished projects would continue to thrive.
“Let me use this opportunity to assure all that we will pursue everything she held dear while she was with us,” Governor Eno vowed. He highlighted The Golden Initiative for All as one of Mrs. Eno’s pet projects that would be sustained and even expanded in her memory. This initiative had been a symbol of her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, and the governor is determined to ensure that her legacy lives on.
As the grieving husband and father, Governor Eno also expressed his gratitude to the people of Akwa Ibom, as well as Nigerians across the country, for their overwhelming support during this difficult time. He spoke of the “incredible outpouring of love, support, and prayers” that had given him and his family strength amidst the devastating loss. He specially thanked President Bola Tinubu for his
“uplifting” condolence message and personal phone call. Governor Eno also extended his appreciation to Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for the “motherly role” she played from the time of Mrs. Eno’s illness until her passing. According to the governor, Mrs. Tinubu personally visited Uyo to offer her condolences to the family and the state.
In his broadcast, Governor Eno also acknowledged several prominent Nigerians who had stood by him during his time of grief. Among those mentioned were former governors of Akwa Ibom, Victor Attah and Udom Emmanuel, as well as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and various religious leaders. Their support, the governor said, had been a source of comfort for him and his family.
Quoting scripture from 2 Corinthians 4:8-10, Governor Eno shared his faith in the face of despair. “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed,” he recited, expressing his belief that despite the heavy burden of losing his wife, he and his family would find solace in their faith.
As Akwa Ibom continues to mourn with their leader, Governor Eno assured the people that the machinery of government would continue to function seamlessly. “Our focus will not be shifted from rendering services to our people with renewed strength, as this is what Kemi” the Yoruba name for Patience “has always prayed for,” he said.
Announcements regarding the burial arrangements for the late Mrs. Eno are expected to be made public soon. Until then, the governor and the people of Akwa Ibom remain united in grief, but determined to honor the legacy of a woman whose life was marked by grace, compassion, and service.
