Akwa Ibom Governor names daughter to oversee First Lady’s office, dismisses remarrying claims

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, to serve as the Acting First Lady of the state following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno. This announcement was made on Friday during a condolence visit from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, along with other notable guests in Uyo.

In his statement, Governor Eno emphasized that his daughter would assume the responsibilities associated with the First Lady’s office, ensuring the continuity of ongoing initiatives launched by her late mother, particularly the Golden Initiative For All. “To uphold the functions of the First Lady and to carry forward my late wife’s important work, I present our daughter, Helen, to take on these duties. She will collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” the governor explained.

He expressed his unwavering confidence in Helen’s ability to maintain the values and vision set forth by her mother, reaffirming his dedication to continuing the projects initiated during her tenure. In a heartfelt tribute, Governor Eno described his late wife as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic,” reminiscing about the deep bond they shared throughout their lives.

Highlighting the profound impact of her absence, he stated that no one could replace her, and he remains committed to preserving her legacy through the ongoing efforts of the First Lady’s office. “I married her when she was 19 and I was 22. I affectionately called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God. We faced numerous challenges together, and her loss is irreplaceable in my life,” he reflected.

During the visit, Senator Tinubu praised the governor’s decision to appoint Helen, expressing her belief in the young woman’s capability to excel in her new role. She described the move as a thoughtful way to honor the legacy of the late First Lady. Offering encouragement, Mrs. Tinubu stated, “Your mother didn’t bring you to me for nothing, and it’s a blessing that your mother’s colleagues and the Vice President’s wife are here to support you. I know you well, and I trust that God will guide you. You will achieve even greater things than your mother did, and He will grant you good health.”

In addition to discussing the appointment, the governor addressed circulating rumors regarding his personal life, specifically the speculation about him considering a second marriage. During a separate visit from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, he humorously dismissed these claims, stating, “I’m not contemplating remarrying anytime soon. I simply do not have the funds to pay another bride price.”

This new chapter for the Eno family comes at a challenging time, but the governor’s commitment to continuing his late wife’s initiatives and Helen’s readiness to step into her mother’s role offer a sense of continuity for the people of Akwa Ibom State. The legacy of Pastor Patience Eno, characterized by her dedication to community service and social welfare, will be upheld as they navigate this transition together.

As Helen Eno-Obareki begins her role as Acting First Lady, she is expected to carry on her mother’s vision and contribute positively to the ongoing efforts aimed at improving the lives of the state’s residents. The support from both her father and prominent figures in government will undoubtedly play a crucial role in her success as she steps into this significant position.