Gov Eno Clarifies Daughter’s Role, Assures Akwa Ibom She’s Not The First Lady

Amidst swirling social media rumours, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has emphatically clarified his daughter’s position, emphasising that she is not the state’s First Lady.

The governor addressed the congregation at the All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket on Sunday, directly addressing the reports that he had informed the wife of the Nigerian President, Oluremi Tinubu, of his daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, becoming Akwa Ibom’s First Lady.

“I did not appoint my daughter as the First Lady,” Gov Eno stated firmly. He explained that his daughter’s role is a natural progression, not a political manoeuvre.

He emphasised that “First Ladies are not appointed,” and that his decision was driven by practicality and a desire to ensure the continuity of his late wife’s programs.

Gov Eno elaborated that Mrs. Obareki, having been her mother’s closest assistant, is uniquely suited to oversee the programs of the former First Lady’s office.

He highlighted the “Golden Initiative for All (GIFA)” as a key priority, along with other programs dedicated to women, the elderly, and vulnerable members of society.

“As long as I remain governor, those programs will not die,” he asserted. “There must be a coordinator, and it must be someone I see daily, someone who can walk into my room and brief me.”

To ensure clarity, Gov Eno announced that his daughter will be officially titled “Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Coordinator, Office of the First Lady.”

This, he explained, will provide a structured framework for her role, while also offering his family and himself a path to healing and comfort following the loss of his wife.

Gov Eno concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the church for their condolences and support, urging the congregation to find solace in faith.

This clarification aims to address public speculation and ensure transparency regarding the role of Mrs. Obareki.

While she will take on an important position in supporting the programs of the late First Lady’s office, Gov Eno has clearly stated that she will not be assuming the role of First Lady of Akwa Ibom State.