Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has denied claims of his connection with the death of his wife, late First Lady of the State, Mrs Patience Eno.
Mrs Patience Eno died in hospital on September 26, 2024 after battling an undisclosed ailment.
However, in a trending online video online, the daughter of Governor Eno, Mrs Jane Eddidiong Ufot, pointedly said that her mother was ‘sacrificed.’
Jane was heard as having said in one of the videos; “My name is Jane Eddidiong Ufot, SSA to the Governor on Health, Safety and Environment. Daddy, I’m sending this post to you alone. Please, let’s talk before this destroys everything.
“I am not a sacrifice. Mummy was—I’m not. I give you a few minutes. If you don’t act, I’ll post this everywhere,” she had warned.
Similarly, Jane Eddidiong Ufot was seen speaking with her daughter in another video, prompting her daughter to repeat, “Tell Grandpa, ‘Do you want them to kill us? Do you want us to die like my baby brother died?
“If I die today, or if my daughter dies—Agimini—if we die because God is exposing the truth, so be it. But my blood will not go in vain.
“Please listen to this—I’m more interested in staying alive,” she stressed
But, speaking in Uyo at the birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, Governor Eno said that the video was recorded in 2024 shortly after the demise of his wife.
Eno noted that the resurgence of the video was a ploy by his political detractors, stressing that he remains focused and committed to serving the people of Akwa Ibom, thus would not be distracted.
He said, “The video in question was recorded shortly after my wife passed away last year. So, why is it resurfacing now, just as we’re marking our second anniversary and celebrating our achievements?
“It only confirms there are detractors. We are in political times. So, you expect more of this. My family is intact—you can see everyone here. Jane is right here, with her husband. We have a good family.
“The children were under pressure. Losing a loved one is traumatic, especially for them. I appeal to the public—please stop bringing back sad memories. I’ve lost my wife already. May her perfect soul rest in peace.
“I remain focused and committed to serving the people of Akwa Ibom. I wouldn’t wish what happened to me on anyone. If those sharing this video wish the same for themselves, I wish them luck.
“But I believe even in politics, families should be off-limits. I assure you, my family is intact—we are fine,” Eno enthused.
Curiously, present at the event were family members, including Jane, who recorded the video and presently serves as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Health, Safety, and Environment.
