Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom dismisses allegations that he appointed his daughter as the state’s First Lady following his wife’s death, calling the claims unfounded.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has denied claims that his eldest daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, was appointed as the state’s First Lady.
He explained that his daughter had been appointed as the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, a detail he emphasized to Senator Oluremi Tinubu during her condolence visit.
While speaking at the All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket on Sunday, the governor clarified that his decision was a natural consequence rather than being influenced by political factors.
He asserted that first ladies are not appointed. Nevertheless, after his wife’s passing, it felt fitting and reassuring for his daughter—who had been her mother’s closest assistant—to manage and carry out the office’s programs.
He emphasized that the primary focus would be on his late wife’s cherished project, Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), along with other support programs aimed at assisting women, the elderly, vulnerable individuals, and those less privileged. He further stated that these initiatives could only thrive under Mrs. Obareki’s coordination due to her wealth of experience, broad exposure, education background, and extensive network.
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He said, “Naming our daughter as the coordinator is not making her First Lady; she worked closely with her late mother. The position of First Lady isn’t something you appoint someone to. The Office of the First Lady holds responsibilities towards the women in this state, and my wife was actively managing several programs—the GIFA initiative, support for elderly citizens among others.”
“As long as I am the governor, these programs will continue. There needs to be a coordinator who is in close contact with me—someone I see daily and can easily come into my office to update me, not someone far removed.”
Governor Eno elaborated that with this appointment, his daughter would hold the title of Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Coordinator for the Office of the First Lady. He mentioned that this decision was intended as a means to bring healing to their family and provide him personal comfort.
The governor expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the President’s wife, and her entourage. He also thanked the church for their comforting words and encouraged them to seek solace in God’s word.
