The First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Patience Umo Eno, died on Thursday after a prolonged illness.
The news was confirmed in a statement by Ini Ememobong, the state commissioner for information, in the early hours of Friday.
According to the statement, the first lady died peacefully in the presence of her family at a hospital, though specific details of her illness have not been disclosed.
The statement read, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness. She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.
“The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time. Further details will be provided by the family as necessary. In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.”
“His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the state is unwavering,” Ememobong added.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state on the passing of his beloved wife, Patience Umo Eno.
In a statement issued on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), the president, on behalf of the federal government, commiserated with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during this grim time.
President Tinubu acknowledged that through her ‘Golden Initiative for All,’ she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.
“He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations,” the state said.