Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, delivered an emotional eulogy to his late wife and First Lady, Patience Eno, during her funeral service on Friday in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit-Ubium Local Government Area.
Describing her as his anchor, the governor vowed to preserve her memory, refusing to refer to her in the past tense.
“You were my anchor, the one who guided me on what was right and wrong. With your passing, a part of me is gone, but I will forever cherish the memories we shared,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion.
Reflecting on their 40 years together, Governor Eno expressed gratitude for their life’s journey, finding solace in their children and grandchildren.
“Today, as we say goodbye, the world celebrates your legacy. Looking at our children and grandchildren, I take comfort knowing that our 40-year journey was filled with growth and blessings. We will be fine,” he added.
“I will never speak of you in the past tense. You will always be my ‘Oluwakemi’—alive in my thoughts, fresh in my mind, and warm in my heart.”
Tributes and Reflections
Nana Shettima, wife of Vice President Kashim Shettima, commended the late First Lady’s impactful contributions to society and urged the family to carry forward her legacy.
Rev. Simeon Afolabi of First Love Assembly, Port Harcourt, delivered a stirring sermon titled “When the Death of Loved Ones Occurs.” Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16, he highlighted the enduring influence of individuals who make a meaningful difference in their lifetimes.
“Anyone who makes a difference in life does not die alone,” Afolabi said, encouraging the family to honor her memory by embracing her virtues.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Patience Eno, who passed away on September 26, 2024, was honored by a host of dignitaries from across Nigeria.
Among those present were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
Also in attendance were former Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel, Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo, Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge Justice Ekaette Obot, and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Obong Umana Okon Umana, alongside other prominent figures.
