Mixed reactions have trailed the decision of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to elevate his first daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki to the position of the First Lady of the state, after the death of his wife, Patience Eno.
Mrs. Patience Ume Eno died after a brief illness on September 27, 2024.
It has now been disclosed that the governor has chosen his daughter, Mrs Eno Obareki as the person to play to role of First Lady of the state.
A report by Uyo-based newspaper, TheMail disclosed that Gov Eno announced this while introducing Mrs Obareki to the wife of Nigeria’s President, First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, her condolence visit to the state on Friday.
Making the announcement, Governor Eno, “It is not an easy task ahead, but to continue to sustain the office of the First Lady, I want to please introduce our daughter, Mrs Helen Eno Obereki, and hand her over to you (Sen Tinubu) Ma.”
“She will continue to coordinate the office of Her Excellency. She will be working with all of our mothers, the Deputy Governor, the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs And Social Welfare, etc.” Governor, said during the condolence visit by Mrs. Tinubu, at the Hilltop Mansion, Government House, Uyo.
Meanwhile, positive reactions have greeted the unusual ‘appointment’ the governor, especially on social media, where most of Akwa Ibomite opined that it would ensure the continuity of Mrs Patience Eno’s legacies.
Nsikak Ndarake, a social content creator, described Mrs. Obareke as “the most suitable person, and idea (sic) into the office of First Lady of Akwa Ibom.
“May God continue to console you and your family and also give you the ability and wisdom to pilot he affair.”
Iyang Bassey, a citizen of the state, while not outrightly condemning the decision, said, “Imagine what the reaction would have been if it was done by a politician that they do not like.”
