‘She was everything man could wish for’: A’Ibom gov speaks on wife’s death

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has broken silence about the demise of his wife, Patience Eno, saying she was “everything a man could ever wish for in a virtuous woman”.

Patience was reported to have died in the hospital after an illness on September 26, 2024.

Speaking via a statement on Friday, October 4, the governor described his late wife as his prayer partner and cheer-leader, adding that he would miss the Akwa Ibom State First Lady for “a lifetime”.

Eno also expressed gratitude to all who empathised with him over his wife’s death, saying: “Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience (Oluwakemi) Umo Eno, was everything a man could ever wish for in a virtuous woman. My prayer partner, counsellor, cheer-leader, best critic, homemaker and permanently smiling. I will miss her for a lifetime.

“The incredible outpouring of love, support, prayers and words of encouragement through phone calls and messages of condolence and visits since the unexpected sunset that befell us (Family) has really encouraged and strengthened us at this time.

Akwa Ibom governor’s wife Patience Eno is dead

“Let me particularly thank our dear people from all strata of life, who have risen in unison across party lines to commiserate with us, through prayers, condolences and phone calls, and even suspended campaign activities to honour our First Lady. We are deeply grateful.

“Let me assure all that we will pursue everything she held dear while she was with us. The Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) as well as all other initiatives she had started will be sustained and expanded.

“The machinery of state will continue to function seamlessly as government will continue to be alive to her responsibilities. Our focus will not be shifted from rendering services to our people with renewed strength as this is what Kemi has always prayed for.

“Permit me to commend our security agencies for maintaining the peace during this solemn moment in our dear state and urge them to do more to maintain the peace, as we go into the Local Government Elections.”

Governor Eno added that “burial arrangements will be made public at the appropriate time as we will not mourn as those who have no hope in Christ Jesus.”

The Star