PATIENCE Umo Eno, wife of Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, is dead.
She was 57.
While the nature of her illness is yet to be disclosed, the state commissioner for information, Ini Ememobong, in a statement on Friday , September 27, stated that she passed away at the hospital on September 26.
Part of the statement reads, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the wife of the executive governor of Akwa Ibom State, her excellency, pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness.
“She passed away peacefully at the hospital on 26th September 2024, in the presence of her family.
“The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time.
The commissioner said further details would be provided by the family as necessary, noting that the family requested privacy as it mourned its beloved wife, mother, and grandmother.
Fondly known as Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, which means “mother and strong pillar of Akwa Ibom,” the deceased was married to her husband for about 36 years.
The couple had six children and many grandchildren.
Born and raised in Akwa Ibom, the late Mrs Umo Eno was known for her humanitarian and philanthropic services to communities.
She reportedly funded many charities, including providing uniforms, books, tuition fees and others to enable children pursue their dreams without the burden of financial constraints.
She founded the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a foundation dedicated to offering shelter, food, and education to the poor and vulnerable in Akwa Ibom.
Usman Mustapha is a solution journalist with International Centre for Investigative Reporting. You can easily reach him via: [email protected]. He tweets @UsmanMustapha_M