Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady, following the recent death of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno. The announcement was made on Friday during a condolence visit from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, along with other dignitaries in Uyo.
Governor Eno emphasized that Helen would uphold the responsibilities of the First Lady’s office and ensure the continuation of initiatives launched by her late mother, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA). “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. She will work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” he stated.
In an emotional tribute, the governor reflected on his deep bond with his late wife, describing her as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic.” He noted that her absence leaves an irreplaceable void in his life. “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. She was a true gift from God, and her passing is an immense loss for me,” he said, expressing his commitment to preserving her legacy through ongoing projects.
Senator Tinubu praised the governor's decision to appoint his daughter, highlighting it as a thoughtful way to sustain Pastor Patience Eno’s legacy. “This practice reflects similar traditions seen in the United States, ensuring continuity in leadership and commitment to community projects,” she remarked. During the visit, she reassured Helen of the support she would receive from her mother’s colleagues and other leaders.
The governor addressed rumors surrounding his personal life, humorously dismissing speculation about remarrying. “I’m not considering taking a second wife anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price,” he quipped, reinforcing that his late wife's legacy will continue to guide him and their family.
