In a recent statement, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno addressed a misleading media report concerning the appointment of his daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, as the First Lady of the state. Eno clarified that his daughter would coordinate the Office of the First Lady following the death of his wife, Patience Umo Eno, who passed away on September 26, 2024. The governor articulated that, during a condolence visit from the Wife of the President, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, he affirmed his daughter’s role as a Special Assistant to his late wife, underscoring the familial and supportive nature of this arrangement rather than a political one. Eno emphasized that integrating his daughter into this role is a way to bring comfort and healing to their bereaved family while ensuring the continuity of ongoing initiatives aimed at supporting various community demographics.
Governor Eno stressed that First Ladies are not formally appointed and reiterated that his daughter’s coordination of the office is a reasonable decision given the circumstances of their loss. He maintained that Mrs. Obareki’s prior experience as her mother’s closest aide positioned her uniquely to manage the office effectively. During a service at the All Nations Christian Ministry in Eket, he articulated that her involvement would not only ensure the persistence and success of his late wife’s projects but also provide them with an emotional anchor during a challenging time. The governor’s remarks aimed to clarify the non-political nature of the role and the emphasis on family and continuity.
The governor expressed his commitment to sustaining the initiatives championed by his late wife, particularly highlighting the “Golden Initiative For All” program. He remarked on the importance of prioritizing support for women, the elderly, and vulnerable populations in Akwa Ibom State. Eno noted that Mrs. Obareki possesses the necessary qualifications—experience, education, and access—to effectively carry forward his late wife’s efforts and implement additional insights and innovations into the office moving forward. He sought support from the public for his daughter’s new role and articulated his hope that she would bring passion and diligence to the challenges ahead.
In discussing the rationale behind his decision, Governor Eno drew a parallel with biblical references, pointing out that historical leaders often selected those closest to them to fill essential roles. He stated, “Even when Jesus died, Peter said ‘Choose from amongst us those that were with Jesus,’” to illustrate the necessity of having someone connected and available to oversee the office’s responsibilities. His proclamation suggested that his daughter’s presence within the office is crucial as she remains closely tied to both the family’s legacy and the pressing needs of Akwa Ibom’s women and other demographics.
The governor expressed gratitude to Mrs. Tinubu and her cohort for their supportive visit, which Eno deemed timely and poignant. He acknowledged their recognition of his daughter’s new responsibility, reiterating that her coordination is aligned with honoring his late wife’s contributions. Governor Eno’s comments highlighted the importance of sustaining the good works initiated by his wife and emphasized his determination to uphold these programs as part of his governance strategy.
In conclusion, Governor Umo Eno’s remarks reflect a deep commitment to familial support and community service in the wake of personal tragedy. By appointing his daughter as the coordinator for the Office of the First Lady, he signifies a continuity of purpose and care for the vulnerable populations in the state. His approach intertwines personal grief with a proactive strategy to maintain and enhance his late wife’s initiatives, thus ensuring that her legacy remains influential in Akwa Ibom State. Through this narrative, the governor seeks both public support and compassion as he navigates the complexities of leadership amid personal loss.
