Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has publicly addressed and refuted claims made by certain media outlets regarding the appointment of his eldest daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, as the First Lady of the state.
This clarification follows the recent passing of his wife, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, who died on September 26, 2024.
During a condolence visit from Nigeria's First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, Governor Eno explained that Mrs. Obareki would served as the Special Assistant to her late mother and coordinate the Office of the First Lady.
He emphasized that this decision was not politically motivated but rather a natural progression given his daughter's close involvement with her mother’s initiatives.
In remarks made at All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket, Governor Eno described the arrangement as a means to foster healing within the family while ensuring continuity in the office's operations.
He articulated that appointing his daughter to oversee these responsibilities was both appropriate and comforting during this difficult time.
Governor Eno reiterated that First Ladies are not appointed roles; they accompany the governor into office. He underscored that Mrs. Obareki's experience and familiarity with her late mother's programs make her well-suited for this role.
He stated, “First Ladies are not appointed—they come with the governor,” highlighting that Mrs. Obareki had been integral to her mother’s work from the outset.
He expressed his commitment to maintaining his late wife's flagship initiative, the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), along with other programs aimed at supporting women, the elderly, and vulnerable populations in Akwa Ibom State.
The governor articulated a desire for Mrs. Obareki to bring new insights and innovations to these efforts, reinforcing that her coordination is essential for their sustainability.
