On a somber Friday, Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, paid an emotional tribute to his late wife, Patience, during her funeral service held in her hometown of Ikot Ekpene Udo, within the Nsit-Ubium Local Government Area. Eno mourned the loss of his companion of 40 years, whom he regarded as his anchor, the person who always guided him on matters of right and wrong. In a heartfelt expression of grief, Eno stated that her death has left a void in his life, yet he vows to maintain her memory vividly in his heart. He shared that with her passing, part of himself had also vanished, but the cherished memories they created together would forever remain a source of solace.
Reflecting on their lengthy journey together, Eno expressed deep appreciation for the blessings they shared as a couple, drawing comfort from their children and grandchildren. He acknowledged that as they bid farewell to Patience, a wider community had gathered to celebrate her life and contributions. Eno cherished the sentiment that their 40 years together had been marked not only by love but also by profound growth and countless blessings. He reassured the attendees that despite the heartbreaking loss, he and the family would find the strength to endure moving forward. His declaration that he would never refer to her in the past tense underscored his enduring love and connection to her memory.
During the service, Nana Shettima, the wife of Vice President Kashim Shettima, honored Patience’s impact on the community and urged the surviving family to uphold her legacy. She highlighted the importance of continuing the values and positive influences that Patience had cultivated in her lifetime. Meanwhile, Rev. Simeon Afolabi from the First Love Assembly in Port Harcourt delivered a poignant homily titled “When the Death of Loved Ones Occurs.” Afolabi reflected on the profound impact individuals have during their lifetimes, stressing that the loss of a loved one carries an immense emotional burden not only for family but for all whose lives were touched by that person. He used the biblical reference of 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16 to encourage the family to embrace the virtues their matriarch embodied.
The family revealed that the official burial arrangements for Patience had been scheduled for November 29, 2024, with a service planned at her country home in Ikot Ekpene Udo, further solidifying the community’s commitment to honoring her memory. Patience passed away on September 26, 2024, shifting the family dynamics and spotlighting the strong connections and shared experiences built during her life. Her departure signifies not only a loss for her immediate family but for a broader community aware of her contributions and the indelible mark she left.
The funeral service drew numerous dignitaries and relatives from various sectors, paying their final respects to the late First Lady. Among those in attendance were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and governors from Bauchi, Imo, and Abia states. The presence of these high-profile figures highlighted the lasting influence Patience had beyond her immediate surroundings, affirming her role as a respected leader and advocate for community welfare.
As guests gathered to mourn and celebrate Patience’s life, it was evident that her legacy would endure through the people she inspired and the families she impacted. The expressions of love, remembrance, and respect from both family members and the broader community echoed the sentiments shared by Governor Eno. His strong commitment to keeping Patience’s memory alive illustrates the powerful bonds forged within their family and her esteemed place in the hearts of many. The service was a poignant reminder of the importance of love, memory, and legacy, resonating deeply with everyone in attendance as they looked toward the future while honoring the past.
