Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, were among the prominent Nigerians who gathered at Ikot Ekpene Udo in Ndit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State to bid a final farewell to Pastor Patience Eno, the wife of Governor Umo Eno, on Friday.
Hajia Nana Shettima, during the service, reflected on the remarkable contributions of the late First Lady to society and encouraged her family to continue her legacy of service and kindness.
Governor Umo Eno, in his tribute, spoke emotionally about the loss of his wife, vowing that the memories of Patience Eno would always stay vivid in his heart. “You were my anchor, the one who could tell me what was right and what was wrong,” he said. “With your death, part of me is gone, but I will cherish the memories we shared forever. 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.”
He added, “As we bid you farewell, the whole world is here, celebrating your memories. Looking at our children and grandchildren, I find solace in knowing that the journey we began 40 years ago in church has been one of growth and immeasurable blessings, and we will be fine.”
In his homily, Rev. Simeon Afolabi of the First Love Assembly in Port Harcourt, who preached on the topic “When the Death of Loved Ones Occurs,” highlighted the profound impact of those who make a difference in life. He quoted 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16 and urged the family to emulate the late First Lady’s exemplary life and contributions.
The service was attended by several dignitaries, including former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Bauchi State Governor Sen. Bala Mohammed, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Other notable figures present included the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State Justice Ekaette Obot, and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Obong Umana Okon Umana, alongside several other dignitaries from across the country.
