President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolence to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, on the death of his wife, Patience Eno.

Patience’s death was disclosed by the state Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, in a statement issued early Friday.

According to the commissioner, the First Lady died at a hospital on September 26, 2024, surrounded by family members.

The president’s message was in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, at the State House, Abuja.

The statement noted that on behalf of the Federal Government, the president commiserates with the Eno family, the state government and the Akwa Ibomites.

“The President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state’s First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno’s administration. The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

“President Tinubu acknowledges 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 statement added that Tinubu assured the grieving family, friends and relatives of the deceased of his support.

In a related development, the Southern Governors’ Forum, in a statement by the SGF Chairman and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the governor’s late wife as a remarkable woman who was the pillar behind her husband’s success in both the private and public sectors.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Governor Pastor Umo Eno on the tragic passing of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno. A remarkable woman, Pastor Patience was not only a devoted partner to the governor but also a pillar of strength and inspiration to countless individuals in Akwa Ibom State in particular and Nigeria in general.

“Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno dedicated her life to serving others, embodying the values of compassion, faith, and resilience. Her tireless efforts in uplifting the less privileged and advocating for the welfare of women and children in Akwa Ibom State have left an indelible mark. She was a beacon of hope whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

“In this time of profound grief, we stand in solidarity with Governor Umo Eno and the entire Umo Eno family. The loss of a cherished spouse is a pain that words cannot fully express.

“We encourage our friend and colleague, Governor Umo Eno, to find solace in the love and memories shared with Pastor Patience, as well as in the support of family, friends, and the people of Akwa Ibom State who mourn alongside him.”

The forum prayed for eternal rest for the deceased.