Akwa Ibom Gov. Eno Confirms Daughter’s Appointment As SSA, Coordinator Of First Lady’s Office

By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted Ocotober 7th, 2024

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno recently made headlines by appointing his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady.

This decision followed the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Oluremi Umo Eno, who had been actively involved in various community programs, notably her pet project, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).

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The announcement came during a condolence visit from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who praised the move as a thoughtful way to sustain Pastor Patience’s legacy, likening it to practices in some countries.

However, the appointment has sparked discussions, with some questioning whether it borders on nepotism.

In response, Governor Eno clarified that Mrs. Obareki’s role is meant to honor her late mother’s legacy. He emphasized that First Ladies are not appointed but come by virtue of marriage to the Governor.

He highlighted that Mrs. Obareki had served as her mother’s closest assistant and was well-positioned to ensure the continuity of the office’s programs.

The Governor explained that, “First Ladies are not appointed—they come with the Governor. Our daughter, Mrs Helen Obareki, has been appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady. She worked closely with her mother from the beginning, and it is only fitting that she continues to oversee the important programs of the Office,” he stated.

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“This is not a political appointment; it is a natural one. I pray she receives the wisdom and support necessary to advance these vital initiatives and introduce further innovation to the Office,” the governor stated.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the late First Lady’s signature project, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), along with various support programs for women, the elderly, vulnerable groups, and the less privileged.

Governor Eno elaborated that the appointment aims to ensure the ongoing responsibilities of the office, highlighting that Mrs Obareki’s proximity to him facilitates effective communication and coordination of the programs.

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Drawing a parallel to biblical times, he remarked, “Even when Jesus died, Peter said, ‘Choose from among those that were with Him.’ The Office of the First Lady carries significant responsibilities, and as long as I am governor, these programs will thrive.” He, however, called on the people of the state to rally behind Mrs Obareki as she continues to advance her late mother’s vision for the state.

The move, while intended to keep her mother’s initiatives alive, has drawn mixed reactions, reflecting concerns about potential favoritism in governance.