Rita Odafe
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed his sorrow to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, following the passing of his wife, Patience Eno.
The news of her passing was officially announced by Ini Ememobong, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, in a statement released on Friday morning.
Patience Eno passed away on September 26, 2024, in a hospital, with her family by her side.
In his statement shared through Gboyega Akosile, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Sanwo-Olu praised the deceased for her significant contributions to the state and her role as a supportive figure to Governor Eno.
He remarked, “On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, my family, the Lagos State government, and its people, I am deeply saddened to mourn my brother Governor Umo Eno on the loss of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno.”
Sanwo-Olu extended his condolences to the citizens of Akwa Ibom and all governors’ spouses in Nigeria, recognizing the loss of their First Lady.
He highlighted her commitment to the community through the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a foundation dedicated to aiding the underprivileged with housing, food, and educational support.
Known affectionately as Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, meaning “Mother and Strong Pillar of Akwa Ibom,” she was held in high regard for her compassionate leadership and humanitarian efforts throughout her life.
Sanwo-Olu concluded with a prayer for her soul, stating, “I pray for eternal peace for the departed, and may Almighty God provide Governor Umo Eno and the family, along with the people of Akwa Ibom, the strength to cope with this immense loss.”
