Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has clarified the appointment of his eldest daughter, Mrs Helen Obareki, as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady.
Governor Eno on Sunday emphasized that the decision was made to honour the legacy of the late First Lady, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno, and to ensure the continuation of her programmes.
The governor explained that following the untimely passing of Pastor Eno, it was both fitting and comforting to appoint Mrs Obareki, who had served as her mother’s closest assistant, to oversee the Office’s initiatives.
“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.
Governor Eno stressed that the appointment was not politically motivated, but rather a natural progression given Mrs Obareki’s experience and her deep understanding of the late First Lady’s initiatives.
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.
He emphasized that Mrs. Obareki’s unique qualifications and her close connection to the late First Lady position her as the ideal candidate to uphold these initiatives.
“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.
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.
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, expressed his hope that the public would rally behind Mrs Obareki as she continues to advance her late mother’s vision for the state.
