… Diri says, ‘Patience Eno’s death very shocking’
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), led by Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, has expressed deep condolences to Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom, following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, who died at the age of 57.
The forum described Mrs. Eno, who passed away early Friday morning, as a “caring, purposeful mother.”
A statement issued by Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, Director General of the forum, noted that her sudden death has shaken the people of Akwa Ibom State and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and reflection on her life and impact.
Affectionately known as “Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom,” or “Mother and Strong Pillar of Akwa Ibom,” she was celebrated for her selflessness, her Christian faith, and her philanthropic work through her organization, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), which provided support to vulnerable and marginalised communities.
The PDP Governors’ Forum paid tribute to the late First Lady’s legacy as a steadfast supporter of her husband throughout their 37 years of marriage.
A mother of six and grandmother of nine, she was a close confidant to Governor Eno, serving as his adviser, prayer partner, and number-one supporter.
Furthermore, Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, expressed shock over the demise of Mrs. Patience Eno.
Senator Diri, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, on Friday, described her sudden passing as a huge loss to her husband, the government and people of Akwa Ibom State.
The governor said the late Akwa Ibom First Lady was a “solid pillar of support and a dependable partner” to her husband, saying, “I share in the grief of my brother-governor of Akwa Ibom State over the very sad news of the passing of his dear wife.
“Mrs. Eno showed great passion for uplifting the people of Akwa Ibom, particularly the womenfolk, alongside her husband. Her untimely death is a big loss to the state as it would create an irreplaceable vacuum.
“On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I extend my heartfelt and sincere condolences to Governor Eno and the people of Akwa Ibom. I pray God Almighty grant Governor Eno, her family and people of the state the fortitude to bear this great loss.”
Meanwhile, as at the time of filing this report, details of the cause of the tragic death were sketchy. Reports have it that Mrs. Eno died after a brief illness.
