Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has publicly addressed a recent video circulating on social media, allegedly released by a family member, which touched on the death of his late wife. Speaking to journalists at the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo during the 60th birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor Obong Nsima Ekere, Governor Eno firmly stated that despite the unsettling nature of the video, his family remains united and intact.
“We are in political times, so you can expect more of that. My family is intact, and you can see everyone here with me,” he emphasized, pointing to the presence of his children, including Jane, Helen, and her husband. The governor questioned the timing of the video’s resurfacing, noting, “The event we are talking about happened immediately after my wife passed on, and that was last year. So why is it surfacing and trending now? Why is it on the eve of the second anniversary, when we are celebrating the milestones we have achieved?”
Governor Eno attributed the video’s emergence to political detractors seeking to distract him from his agenda. “This teaches me that there are detractors around. My family is intact,” he reiterated. He also appealed to the public’s empathy, reminding them of the trauma his children endured following the loss of their mother. “The pressure on the children when they lose a loved one can be traumatic, and we must recognise that.”
Despite the personal challenges, Governor Eno vowed to remain focused on his governance goals. “I cannot be distracted. I remain focused, and I will continue to serve the people of Akwa Ibom. I do not wish what happened to me on anyone. So, to those spreading these rumours, if that is what they wish for themselves, I wish them luck.”
The governor also took time to congratulate Obong Nsima Ekere on his milestone birthday, praying for his continued health and wisdom to aid in the development of both the state and the nation.
