Governors yesterday visited Akwa Ibom State to share in the grief and express consolation to Governor Umo Eno, whose wife died recently.

On the condolence visit were Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, who is also chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State who is also the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum.

Others were Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara; Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State; Governor Oborevwori of Delta State; and Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State.

AbdulRazaq said the news of the death of Eno’s wife of 38 years, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience (Oluwakemi) Umo Eno feels sad. He said because of the inevitability of death as decreed by God, Eno will have to accept it in good faith as he bears the loss.

AbdulRazaq also charged him to find the strength and courage required of him to carry on with the duties of governance because the people of Akwa Ibom were looking up to him to provide effective services as their governor.

Also speaking, Obaseki recalled the close encounter they had with the deceased during the political campaigns and her energetic posture and contributions.

He said: “Because of your faith, we know you will be strong and take this home call in good faith. We know it is difficult and very disturbing but be always reminded of the love you shared with her when she was here, the value she represented and the worth she stood for. You should take consolation in those and pray that God will rest her in peace.”

In his response, Eno said the mourning will last a lifetime because nothing can replace her as his best friend, faithful tender of the home and their concerns. He thanked his visitors and all Nigerians for their calls, prayers and words of encouragement they had shared with him.

The highlight of the visit was a prayer session led by Fubara.