Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has clarified why he has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, to coordinate the First Lady’s office following the death of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno. During a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries, Governor Eno explained that his daughter had been closely involved in his wife’s initiatives from the beginning of his administration.
Governor Eno emphasized that Helen Obareki’s appointment is a natural progression rather than a political decision. He stated, “Our daughter, Helen, has been with the mother from the beginning of my administration. The First Lady has passed, but her work must continue. Helen is the right person to carry on her legacy.”
The governor further highlighted that the Office of the First Lady is not an appointed position but comes with the governor. He assured that the projects initiated by his late wife, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), would continue under Helen’s coordination.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the continuity it ensures, while others question the appropriateness of such appointments within families. Nonetheless, Governor Eno remains firm in his belief that Helen Obareki is well-suited to uphold her mother’s vision and continue the humanitarian work that has been a hallmark of the First Lady’s office.
