Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady following the recent passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno.
The announcement was made during a condolence visit from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries in Uyo, the state capital, on Friday, October 4.
Governor Eno stated that his daughter would take on the responsibilities of the First Lady, ensuring continuity in the office and the initiatives started by her late mother.
“To preserve the Office of the First Lady and continue my late wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen, to fulfill the duties of this role. She will collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” the governor said. He expressed confidence in his daughter’s ability to uphold the values and vision of her late mother and reiterated his commitment to advancing the projects initiated through the First Lady’s office.
Reflecting on his deep bond with his late wife, Governor Umo Eno shared, “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God, a source of comfort and support. We faced many challenges together, sharing both victories and losses. Her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me. She embodied the qualities of a biblical virtuous woman, my greatest supporter, and my toughest critic. Her absence will be felt for the rest of my life.”
In response to speculation about remarrying, Governor Eno humorously dismissed the idea during a separate condolence visit from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stating, “I’m not considering remarriage anytime soon,” and joking that he doesn’t have the funds to pay another bride price.
He stressed that the void left by his late wife cannot be filled. “Her legacy will live on in our hearts. She initiated several projects, which is why I have introduced our daughter, Helen, to the role of First Lady. She will step in to coordinate the work, ensuring that the Office of the First Lady continues the programs my wife started.”
