Sanwo-Olu Offers Condolences to Akwa Ibom Governor Over Wife’s Passing

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed heartfelt condolences to his Akwa Ibom State counterpart, Umo Eno, following the passing of his wife, Patience Eno.

Her death was announced by Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, who stated that she died at a hospital on September 26, 2024, surrounded by family.

In a statement released through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described Patience Eno as a “pillar of support” to the governor, praising her leadership and humanitarian efforts in the state.

The statement read partly, “On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke and family, the government and people of Lagos State, it is with a deep sense of sorrow that I commiserate with my brother Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on the passing of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno.

“I also express my deepest condolences to the people of Akwa Ibom State and the entire Eno family, as well as wives of all the state governors in Nigeria over the demise of the Akwa Ibom First Lady.

“Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno was not just a wife and mother, but a soulmate and pillar of support to our brother, Governor Eno. She supported thousands of people in Akwa Ibom State through the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a foundation that focused on providing shelter, food, and education to the poor and vulnerable in Akwa Ibom.

“The First Lady, fondly referred to as Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, meaning “Mother and Strong Pillar of Akwa Ibom,” was widely loved for her compassionate leadership and humanitarian work in Akwa Ibom during her lifetime.”

Sanwo-Olu prayed for the repose of the deceased, saying, “I pray that the Almighty God will grant the deceased eternal rest and Governor Umo Eno, the entire family, and the people of Akwa Ibom the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”