Ex-Gov Emmanuel remembers late Akwa Ibom First Lady, condoles Eno

Former Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has once again condoled his successor, Umo Eno, over his wife’s death last year.

The Akwa Ibom First Lady, Patience, died on 26 September last year in a hospital following an undisclosed ailment. Her remains were buried on 29 November at her country home, Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of the state.

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“On behalf of my wife and family, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno and his family on this sad occasion of one year remembrance of Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno, who passed last year,” Mr Emmanuel stated in a message published on his Facebook page on Friday.

The former governor said the late First Lady touched many lives in Akwa Ibom and beyond through her humanitarian causes, which were “clear testaments to her remarkable spirit”.

He added that she was a symbol of strength to her husband, Governor Eno and the family.

“As you reflect on the gift of her life and the profound impact she created, may the cherished memories of her life and love continue to guide and comfort you and your family,” Mr Emmanuel said to Mr Eno in the message.

Mr Emmanuel’s message to Mr Eno comes amid speculations of a rift between the two leaders because of the governor’s defection from the PDP to the APC. However, Governor Eno has repeatedly said that there is no rift between him and his predecessor, whom he calls his “political godfather.”

Some top PDP leaders in Akwa Ibom who refused to defect to the APC with Mr Eno have also published a joint message of condolence to the governor.

The late Patience was inarguably a compassionate mother, effervescent cheerleader, and great mobiliser of women for noble causes, stated the PDP leaders—Emmanuel Enoidem, a former PDP national legal adviser; Onofiok Luke, a former member of the House of Representatives; Ini Ememobong, a former commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport; and Chris-Abasi Eyo—in their statement.

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“Though gone, her memory lingers on, and we pray God to offer consolation to Pastor Umo Eno and the entire first family of our state.”

After her mother’s passing, the first daughter, Helen Obareki, now coordinates the office of the First Lady.

The Akwa Ibom State Government is currently holding a memorial church service at Eket in honour of the late First Lady.