Gov. Umo Eno ‘s wife passed on; As Tinubu, Governors, others mourn unexpected exit
By Dennis Udoma, Uyo
Wife to the Akwa Ibom Governor, Pst. (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno is death.
The First Lady passed on yesterday in the presence of her family members, after a brief illness.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong titled, “Unexpected Exit” is quoted inter – Alia, “it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness.
“She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.
“The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time. Further details will be provided by the family as necessary.
“In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.
“His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the state is unwavering”.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubuhas extended his heartfelt condolences to Governor Umo Eno on the shocking passing of his beloved wife.
The wishes of Mr. President is contained in a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga and made available to the press in Uyo.
President Tinubu, on behalf of the Federal Government, commiserates with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during on the grim time.
The press release said, “the President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state’s First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno’s administration.
“The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.
“President Tinubu acknowledges that through her ‘Golden Initiative for All,’ she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.
“He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations”.
President Tinubu however, committed the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands.
He also expressed his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.
Akwa Ibom Government, in a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah has directed flags in all Government Ministries and institutions in the State to be flown half mast in honour of the deceased.
Condolences have continued to trickle in from Governors of other State, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, senior citizens and organizations within and outside the Stàte.