Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, Defends Daughter’s Role as Coordinator of First Lady’s Office
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has spoken out against a recent media report suggesting that his first daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, has been appointed as the First Lady of the state. In a statement made during a condolence visit by the Wife of the President, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, Eno clarified that his daughter was not appointed to the position, but will instead serve as the Special Assistant to the Governor and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady.
The governor made the statement during a speech at the All Nations Christian Ministry Intl in Eket, where he expressed his gratitude to the Wife of the President for her condolences and acknowledged his daughter’s role in his late wife’s office. Eno emphasized that his decision to appoint his daughter as coordinator was not motivated by political expediency, but rather a natural outcome of her close relationship with his late wife and her qualifications for the position.
He also highlighted the importance of his wife’s pet project, “Golden Initiative For All,” and other support programs for women, the elderly, vulnerable, and less privileged, which will continue to run under the coordination of Mrs. Obareki. Eno stressed that it is not only proper but also comforting and assuring for his daughter to coordinate the office, given her experience, exposure, education, and access.
During his speech, Eno quoted Peter’s statement when Jesus died, saying “Choose from amongst us those that were with Jesus,” emphasizing the importance of the Office of the First Lady and his wife’s programs, which will continue to run under his daughter’s coordination. He also reaffirmed his gratitude to Mrs. Tinubu and her entourage for their timely visit and acknowledged the appointment of Mrs. Obareki as apt.
In conclusion, Governor Eno’s statement aims to bring healing to his family and allow the smooth running of the office, which will continue under the coordination of his daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki.
