Governor Umo Eno expresses deep sorrow as he mourns the passing of his wife, describing her as the epitome of virtue and grace. Learn more about his heartfelt tribute and the legacy she leaves behind.
Governor Umo Eno has spoken publicly for the first time since his wife, Patience Umo-Eno, passed away.
In a statement on Friday, the governor expressed that his late wife, Pastor, embodied “everything a man could ever wish for in a virtuous woman” and mentioned he would “miss her for a lifetime.”
Nine days after the sudden passing of the Akwa Ibom State First Lady, Eno was expressing the deep sorrow he felt over losing his wife of 38 years.
In the statement titled “We’re Perplexed But Not In Despair” from 2 Corinthians 4:8, the governor expressed gratitude to everyone who has shown empathy through their condolences both from near and far.
Umo expressed that Pastor (Mrs.) Patience (Oluwakemi) Umo Eno was a truly virtuous woman, embodying everything one could wish for. She was his prayer partner, counselor, cheerleader, best critic, homemaker with an unending smile. He shared that he would miss her deeply for the rest of his life.
Governor Eno expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and everyone who offered their condolences, acknowledging the “remarkable outpouring of love, support, prayers, comforting words through phone calls and messages of condolence, as well as visits since the unexpected loss we experienced. This has truly encouraged and strengthened our family during this difficult time.”
He expressed his gratitude to the people of Akwa Ibom for their exceptional display of love and support that transcended political boundaries, particularly acknowledging the youth who postponed their planned national protests in honor of his beloved wife.
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He went on to say, “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone from all walks of life who has come together across party lines. Your prayers, condolences, phone calls, and the gesture of suspending campaign activities in honor of our First Lady mean so much to us. We are profoundly grateful.”
Rest assured, we will continue to uphold and expand everything she cherished during her time with us. Both the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) and all other initiatives she began will be sustained and developed further.
The State’s operations will continue to run smoothly, as the Government remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities. We will stay dedicated to serving our people with renewed vigor, which is what Kemi has always hoped for.
Allow me to applaud our security agencies for preserving peace during this solemn time in our beloved State. I encourage them to continue their efforts as we approach the Local Government Elections.
The governor expressed appreciation for the public’s respect for his family’s privacy during “this time of profound loss, grief, and mourning.” He trusted that this consideration would continue as “details about the burial arrangements will be shared at an appropriate time since we do not grieve as those without hope in Christ Jesus.”
