Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, on Friday paid an emotional tribute to his late wife and First Lady, Patience, during her funeral service held in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit-Ubium Local Government Area of the state.
The governor described his late wife as his anchor and vowed to keep her memory alive, promising never to refer to her in the past tense.
“You were my anchor, the one who could tell me what was right and what was wrong. With your death, part of me is gone, but I will cherish the memories we shared forever,” Eno said, his voice filled with emotion.
Reflecting on their 40 years together, he expressed gratitude for the blessings they enjoyed as a couple and took solace in their children and grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life
“Today, as we bid you farewell, the whole world is here, celebrating your memory. As I look at our children and grandchildren, I find consolation in knowing that the journey we began 40 years ago has been one of growth and immeasurable blessings. We will be fine,” he added.
“I will never describe you in the past tense. You will always be my ‘Oluwakemi’—alive in my mind, fresh in my thoughts, and warm in my heart.”
Tributes and Encouragement
The wife of Vice President Kashim Shettima, Nana, praised the late First Lady’s contributions to humanity and urged the family to uphold her legacy.
Rev. Simeon Afolabi of First Love Assembly, Port Harcourt, delivered a moving sermon titled “When the Death of Loved Ones Occurs.” He emphasised the enduring impact of those who make a difference during their lifetime.
“Anyone who makes a difference in life does not die alone,” Afolabi said, drawing from 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16 and encouraging the family to emulate her virtues.
Attendees and Dignitaries
Patience Eno’s passing, which occurred on 26 September 2024, brought together numerous dignitaries to pay their last respects.
Among those present were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Others included Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and former Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Also in attendance were the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge Justice Ekaette Obot, former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Obong Umana Okon Umana, and many other dignitaries.