Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice President Kashim Shettima were among the dignitaries who attended the funeral of the late Pastor Patience Umo Eno, wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno. The funeral took place in Ikot Ekpene Udo Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, with numerous current and former governors, as well as members of the National Assembly, present.
Governors in attendance included Sim Fubara of Rivers State, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Alex Otti of Abia State, and former Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom.
In his emotional tribute, Governor Umo Eno expressed that the memories of his late wife would always remain with him. He vowed to never speak of her in the past tense, saying, “You were my anchor, the one who could tell me what was right and wrong. With your death, part of me is gone, but I will cherish the memories we shared forever. As we bid you farewell today, the world celebrates your memory, and as I look at our children and grandchildren, I find comfort knowing that our 40-year journey together has been one of growth and immeasurable blessings.”
Eno further promised, “I will never describe you in past tense. You will always be my ‘Oluwakemi,’ alive in my mind, fresh in my thoughts, and warm in my heart.”
Vice President Shettima’s wife, Hajia Nana Shettima, also paid tribute, highlighting the late First Lady’s notable contributions to humanity and encouraging the family to carry forward her legacy.
Rev. Simeon Afolabi of the First Love Assembly in Port Harcourt gave a homily titled “When Death of Loved Ones Occurs,” reflecting on the grief caused by the loss of a loved one. He reminded the family that those who make a difference in life never truly die alone, drawing from scriptures (1 Thessalonians 4:15-16) and urging them to emulate the good legacies left by the late First Lady.
Other notable attendees included the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas) Ekprikpe Ekpo, Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State Justice Ekaette Obot, former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Obong Umana Okon Umana, and many other distinguished guests.
