Governor Umo Eno Responds to Resurfaced Video Alleging Involvement in Wife’s Death

By Iyojo Ameh

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has responded to a recently resurfaced video in which his daughter, Jane Eddidiong Ufot, appears to accuse him of being responsible for the death of his late wife, Mrs. Patience Eno.

The governor addressed the controversy during a public appearance in Uyo at the birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere. Present at the event were members of the governor’s family, including Jane herself, who currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Health, Safety, and Environment.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the video resurfaced, Governor Eno confirmed that the clip was recorded in 2024, shortly after the death of his wife. He dismissed its renewed circulation as a politically motivated move aimed at destabilizing his administration.

“We’re in political times, so you expect more of this,” the governor said. “My family is intact, you can see everyone here. The video in question was recorded shortly after my wife passed away last year. So why is it resurfacing now, just as we’re marking our second anniversary and celebrating our achievements? It only confirms there are detractors.”

Governor Eno, who appeared composed during the event, noted that the period following the loss of his wife was traumatic for the family, particularly the children.

“Jane is right here, with her husband. We have a good family. The children were under pressure. Losing a loved one is traumatic, especially for them. I appeal to the public to please stop bringing back sad memories. I’ve lost my wife already. May her perfect soul rest in peace,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to his duties, the governor said he would not be distracted by what he described as “cheap blackmail.”

“I remain focused and committed to serving the people of Akwa Ibom. I wouldn’t wish what happened to me on anyone. If those sharing this video wish the same for themselves, I wish them luck. But I believe even in politics, families should be off-limits. I assure you, my family is intact, we are fine.”

Recall that, Mrs. Patience Eno was reported by the Akwa Ibom Government House to have passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024, at a hospital in the presence of her family, following an undisclosed illness.

However, in the viral video, Jane Eddidiong Ufot made emotional statements implying that her mother was “sacrificed.” In the first of two video clips, she addresses her father directly:

“My name is Jane Eddidiong Ufot, SSA to the Governor on Health, Safety and Environment. Daddy, I’m sending this post to you alone. Please, let’s talk before this destroys everything. I am not a sacrifice. Mummy was, I’m not. I give you a few minutes. If you don’t act, I’ll post this everywhere.”

In another clip, Jane is seen speaking to her young daughter, who repeats a chilling line:
“Tell Grandpa, ‘Do you want them to kill us? Do you want us to die like my baby brother died?’”

Jane, visibly distressed, continues: “If I die today, or if my daughter dies, Agimini if we die because God is exposing the truth, so be it. But my blood will not go in vain. Please listen to this I’m more interested in staying alive.”

Following his wife’s passing, Governor Eno appointed his eldest daughter, Lady Helen Obareki, to take over the responsibilities of First Lady and continue her late mother’s “Golden Initiatives For All” (GIFA) pet project. The move came amid unconfirmed rumors that the governor may have taken a second wife.

Despite the renewed attention, Governor Eno maintained that his administration remains focused on governance and delivering on its promises to the people of Akwa Ibom State.