Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has responded to a trending video allegedly released by a member of his family concerning the death of his wife, affirming that his family remains united.
He stated that a multitude of such insinuations and character assassinations by detractors would not distract him from his commitment to implementing the ARISE Agenda and fulfilling his social contract with the people of Akwa Ibom.
The governor made this known while answering questions from Government House correspondents regarding the video circulating about his family, upon his arrival at Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo, for the 60th birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, on Saturday.
He said, “We are in political times, so you can expect more of that. My family is intact, and you can see everyone here with me.
“The event we are talking about happened immediately after my wife passed on, and that was last year. So why is it surfacing and trending now? Why is it on the eve of the second anniversary, when we are celebrating the milestones we have achieved?
“This teaches me that there are detractors around. My family is intact. You can see that Jane herself is here; that’s Helen and her husband. So, we have a good family.
“The pressure on the children when they lose a loved one can be traumatic, and we must recognise that.
“All I can appeal to the public is that it should not bring back sad memories. It is enough that I have lost my wife, and I pray that they allow her peaceful soul to rest in peace.
“I cannot be distracted. I remain focused, and I will continue to serve the people of Akwa Ibom. I do not wish what happened to me on anyone. So, to those spreading these rumours, if that is what they wish for themselves, I wish them luck.”
Eno congratulated Obong Nsima Ekere on his 60th birthday celebration and prayed that God would continue to strengthen him, bless him with long life, good health, and wisdom to continue contributing to the development of the State and the Nation.