By Onyewuchi Ojinnaka
Governor Umo Eno has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the acting First Lady of Akwa Ibom State.
This follows the death of his late wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.
On Friday Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu led a delegation of dignitaries, including Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, and wives of state governors and presiding officers of the National Assembly, to condole with Governor Eno.
Senator Tinubu praised Governor Eno’s decision, noting that it reflects practices seen in the United States and is a thoughtful way to sustain the late Patience Eno’s legacy. “I want to thank God for Patience’s life, though short, she completed her race. May God comfort you, your family, and your children.”
Meanwhile, Governor Eno reflected on his deep bond with his late wife, describing her as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic.” He introduced his daughter as the new acting First Lady.
He said, “It is not an easy task ahead. But to maintain the Office of the First Lady and carry forward my late wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen, to continue the duties of the office.”