Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has reaffirmed his commitment to respecting political predecessors, including former governor Udom Emmanuel, during a memorial service for his late wife, First Lady Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno. The statement came amid clarifications regarding remarks made during a road commissioning event in ONNA Local Government Area. Eno emphasized that his upbringing and values would guide his relationships with past leaders, stating, "I will never have a problem with my predecessor. I have shown, both privately and publicly, the respect I have for Deacon Udom Emmanuel."
The remarks were made at the second memorial service for Eno’s wife, held at All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket. The governor also addressed comments he had previously made about folded industries in ONNA, clarifying that his response to the Paramount Ruler’s request for collaboration with business owners was directed at the enterprises themselves, not his predecessor. "The word 'Unadot' I used is an Ibibio term meaning 'people' and is not derogatory," Eno explained, adding that he had no political intent in the statement.
During the event, Eno reiterated his respect for Udom Emmanuel, who served as governor from 2012 to 2019. He noted that his predecessor’s legacy, including projects like the 14.8-kilometre road commissioned in ONNA, would be honored. "I believed it was something to be thankful for, to inherit a project started by my boss and finish it," Eno said, highlighting his commitment to continuity in governance. He also clarified that his remarks about the industries were not linked to Udom Emmanuel, as the former governor was not a shareholder in the businesses in question.
In tribute to his late wife, Eno described her as a woman whose influence extended beyond their family. "Her presence became woven into the fabric of our families. Her words became part of our memories; her works became a legacy that continues to speak long after she has departed," he said. The governor reflected on their 40-year marriage, emphasizing the partnership built on love, faith, and shared challenges. "Through it all, she remained a remarkable woman whose influence, compassion, love, and sacrifice reached far beyond our home," he added.
The memorial service also featured a tribute from Lady Helen Eno-Obareki, the governor’s daughter and coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, who described her mother as a "phenomenal heroine" whose life was a blessing to humanity. Other attendees, including Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi and Apostle Lawrence Achudume, shared fond memories of Patience Eno, praying for the repose of her soul.
The event concluded with the unveiling of Eno-Obareki’s book, The Patience to Build: Lessons from My Mother, which the governor praised as "a record of love of a woman whose greatest investment was not in possession or achievement but in people, especially our children and family." The service underscored the governor’s personal and political values, balancing public accountability with private grief.
Eno’s statements come amid ongoing discussions about political transitions in Akwa Ibom State, where his administration has prioritized honoring past initiatives while addressing contemporary challenges. The governor’s emphasis on respect for predecessors and transparency in governance reflects broader efforts to maintain stability and public trust in the region.