Governor Umo Eno Appoints Daughter as Acting First Lady, Dismisses Remarriage Rumors

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady. This decision comes in the wake of the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno.

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 October 4th, 2024.

Governor Eno expressed his confidence in Helen's ability to uphold her late mother's legacy, stating, "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."

He emphasized that she would collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare to ensure the continuity of projects initiated by Pastor Patience Eno.

Reflecting on his deep bond with his late wife, Governor Eno shared, “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God, a source of comfort and succour.” He described her as his greatest supporter and toughest critic, acknowledging the irreplaceable loss he feels.

Addressing rumors about remarrying, Governor Eno humorously dismissed the idea, saying, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon,” and joked about not having the money to pay another bride price.

He stressed that the vacancy left by his wife cannot be filled, showing his commitment to preserving her legacy through their daughter’s new role.