By Joke Kujenya
NIGERIANS WOKE up Friday to the sad news of the passing away of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno.
She passed on to glory following a brief illness.
Her death occurred on Thursday, September 26, 2024, in a hospital where she was surrounded by her family.
Ini Ememobong, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, confirmed the sad news in a press statement issued in the early hours of Friday, September 27.
In the statement titled “Unexpected Sunset,” Ememobong expressed the deep sorrow felt by Governor Umo Eno and the entire state, describing Mrs. Umo Eno as a beacon of strength and service.
He noted that the First Lady passed away peacefully and urged the public to respect the family’s request for privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother, and grandmother.
“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 statement read.
Mrs. Umo Eno, widely respected for her humility and dedication to humanitarian causes, was a strong advocate for women’s and children’s welfare in Akwa Ibom State.
Through various initiatives, she championed health, education, and social programs aimed at improving the lives of the most vulnerable in society.
Her efforts to uplift the poor and marginalized earned her admiration from many, both within and beyond the state.
As the state mourns, the government has ordered that flags be flown at half-mast across all government buildings and facilities.
This directive, issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, is a symbol of respect and mourning for the late First Lady.
In his statement, Uwah described Mrs. Umo Eno as a “remarkable woman” whose death is a profound loss for both her family and the state.
The order to lower the flags will remain in effect until further notice, in line with the family’s wishes.
Governor Umo Eno, though deeply heartbroken by the personal loss, has assured the people of Akwa Ibom that his commitment to serving the state remains steadfast.
In his words, “Despite this huge personal loss, my dedication to the service of Akwa Ibom State is unwavering.”
The governor also expressed his profound appreciation to everyone who has supported the family during this time of grief, calling for continued prayers for strength.
The Commissioner for Information also noted that further details regarding funeral arrangements would be provided in due course.
For now, the family requests privacy to grieve.
Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno was not only the wife of the Executive Governor but a devoted mother and grandmother who played an active role in her family’s life.
Her death has sent shockwaves across the state, with many paying tribute to her kindness, compassion, and service to humanity.
Her contributions to society, especially in the areas of health and women’s empowerment, are expected to be remembered for years to come.
Southern Governors Mourn
The Southern Governors’ Forum, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, has expressed its condolences to Governor Umo Eno.
In a statement, the forum described the late First Lady as the pillar behind her husband’s success and a devoted public servant who touched many lives with her compassion.
Rivers Governor, Also
Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara also sent a message of condolence, acknowledging the immense pain Governor Umo Eno must feel at losing a wife with whom he had shared many years of companionship and mutual support.
“Although death is a certain end for every mortal, it is always painful to experience the loss of someone so dear to you, particularly one whom you have had a special bond with for many years,” Governor Fubara said in his message.
Reports note that as tributes continue to pour in, Akwa Ibom State remains in mourning, with many residents taking to social media and public platforms to express their shock and sadness over the First Lady’s passing.
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