Bola Afolabi
A gentle and supportive star has fallen from the sky of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Professor Eno, as his wife, Mrs Patience Eno, has passed away.
The First Lady breathed her last on Thursday, September 26 after what the family describes as a brief illness.
She was 57.
Only about six months ago, the family and their loved ones celebrated the deceased’s 57th birthday.
It was marked during the Eket Senatorial District Women New Year thanksgiving service and empowerment programme.
The First Lady had given an insight into the secrets of her husband, always looking cute in any attire and entrepreneurial drive, saying, “Aside from being a governor’s wife, I am a seamstress, you call it fashion designer now. My father gave me my sewing machine when I got married 33 years ago, and it is still in my workshop,” she recalled. Apart from being resourceful and dedicated, she touches people’s lives positively.”
They had been married for 37 years.
At the event, Eno extolled the wife’s dedication and passion for uplifting families and the vulnerable in the society.
“I want to say that I am incredibly proud of your dedication and compassion. Your drive to make a difference shines through in every aspect of GIFA, and I am confident that this programme will leave a lasting impact on countless lives.
“You have been true to your name, you have been an incredible wife and mother and I am sure all of us and our children are really proud of you.
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, announced the First Lady’s death in a press statement issued in the early hours of Friday.
According to the commissioner, the First Lady died at a hospital on September 26, 2024, surrounded by family members
The statement titled “Unexpected Sunset” 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.”
