Governor Umo Eno Pays Emotional Tribute to Late Wife at Her Funeral

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has bid a heartfelt farewell to his late wife and First Lady, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, during her funeral held on Friday, November 29, in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit-Ubium LGA.

In an emotional speech, Governor Eno described his wife as his anchor and confidant, vowing never to speak of her in the past tense as her memories remain alive in his heart.

“You were my anchor, the one who could tell me what was right and what was wrong. With your death, part of me is gone, but I will cherish the memories we shared forever,” he said.

Reflecting on their 40-year journey together, which began in church, he added: “Today, as we bid you farewell, the whole world is here, celebrating your memories. As I look at our children and grandchildren, I take solace in the blessings and growth we shared. I will never describe you in past tense. You will always be my ‘Oluwakemi,’ alive in my mind, fresh in my thoughts, and warm in my heart.”

In her remarks, Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, praised the late First Lady for her contributions to humanity and encouraged the family to uphold her legacy.

Delivering a homily titled “When Death of Loved Ones Occurs,” Rev. Simeon Afolabi of First Love Assembly in Port Harcourt urged the family to draw strength from their faith and emulate the late First Lady’s impactful life. Quoting 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16, he emphasized that those who leave behind a legacy of love and service never truly die.

The funeral service was graced by dignitaries, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and former Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Others in attendance included the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo, Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge Justice Ekaette Obot, former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Obong Umana Okon Umana, and a host of other notable figures who came to pay their last respects