Governor Umo Eno Appoints Daughter Helen as Acting First Lady of Akwa Ibom State

 

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has named his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno, a few weeks ago. The announcement was made during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries in Uyo, the state capital, on Friday, October 4.

Governor Eno explained that Helen would now assume the duties of the First Lady to maintain the continuity of the office and the projects initiated by her late mother. "To preserve the Office of the First Lady and continue the work my late wife started, I am introducing our daughter, Helen, to take on these responsibilities. She will work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare," the governor stated.

He expressed his confidence in Helen’s ability to uphold her mother’s values and continue the legacy of projects started through the First Lady’s office. He assured the public that the work would proceed with the same dedication and vision.

Reflecting on his late wife, Governor Eno shared memories of their strong bond, noting that they had been together since their youth. "I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly God’s gift, a source of comfort," he recalled. He described the challenges and triumphs they faced together, expressing deep sorrow over her passing. "Her loss is irreplaceable. She was my virtuous woman, my biggest supporter, and my most honest critic."

Governor Eno also addressed speculation about remarrying, humorously dismissing the idea during a separate visit from Senate President Godswill Akpabio. "I’m not thinking about remarrying anytime soon," he said, joking that he doesn't have the means to pay another bride price.

He emphasized that the role his late wife played could not be replaced, stating, "Her legacy will continue in our hearts, and that is why Helen will step in to ensure that the work from the Office of the First Lady carries on, keeping alive the programs and projects my wife began."