Akwa Ibom Governor In Tears: Umo Eno Honors Wife’s Legacy After Tragic Loss

Governor Umo Eno has broken his silence following the passing of his wife, Patience Umo-Eno, describing her as the epitome of every virtue a man could wish for in a wife.

Nine days after the devastating loss of the Akwa Ibom First Lady, Governor Eno shared his profound grief and paid tribute to the woman he had spent 38 years with.

In a heartfelt statement released on Friday, Governor Eno referred to his late wife as his prayer partner, counselor, and constant source of strength.

“Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience (Oluwakemi) Umo Eno, was everything a man could ever desire in a virtuous woman. She was my prayer partner, counselor, cheerleader, best critic, homemaker, and always smiling. I will miss her for a lifetime,” Eno expressed.

The governor’s message, titled “We Are Perplexed But Not in Despair,” was inspired by scripture from 2 Corinthians 4:8, highlighting the emotional weight of the unexpected loss.

Governor Eno extended his gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences from across the country and beyond. He particularly thanked President Bola Tinubu and others who reached out during this period of mourning.

“The overwhelming show of love, support, prayers, and words of encouragement through phone calls, messages of condolence, and visits since this unexpected tragedy has greatly comforted and strengthened us,” Eno shared.

He also expressed special thanks to the people of Akwa Ibom, acknowledging their unity and support across political lines, especially the youth, who postponed planned national protests in honor of his late wife.

“Let me especially thank our people from all walks of life, who have stood with us in unity, offering prayers, condolences, and even halting campaign activities to honor our First Lady. We are deeply appreciative,” Eno said.

He assured the public that all of his late wife’s initiatives, including the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), would be sustained and expanded, adding that the state government would continue to function seamlessly and focus on serving the people, as this was something his wife always prayed for.

Governor Eno also commended the security agencies for maintaining peace during this solemn period and urged them to continue ensuring stability as the state heads into Local Government Elections.

He concluded by thanking the public for respecting his family’s privacy during this time of grief, while reassuring them that burial arrangements will be made public in due course, as the family mourns with the hope found in Christ Jesus.