Governor Umo Eno Refutes Media Claims About Appointing Daughter as First Lady

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has dismissed rumors that his eldest daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, has been appointed as the state’s First Lady.

He clarified, during a condolence visit from Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, that his daughter’s role as Special Assistant to the late First Lady of Akwa Ibom naturally positioned her to oversee the Office of the First Lady.

Eno emphasized that a First Lady is not appointed but accompanies the governor, and due to her close connection with the late First Lady, it was fitting for his daughter to manage the office.

Speaking at All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket, Governor Eno assured the public that the late First Lady’s charity work, including the Golden Initiative for All and other programs supporting women, the elderly, and the underprivileged, would remain a top priority.

He believes his daughter’s experience and education make her well-suited to continue these projects.The governor revisited the issue to provide clarity, stressing that the decision was not politically motivated but a natural step to keep the office functioning and to bring healing to the family after their loss.Governor Eno expressed his appreciation to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her recognition of Helen Obareki’s role in continuing her late mother’s work.

He also thanked the Church for their comforting messages and encouraged them to find strength in their faith, rather than succumbing to excessive grief during mourning.