Eno Responds To Viral Video: “Don’t Politicize My Family’s Pain”

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has broken his silence over a resurfaced video making rounds on social media, condemning what he described as an attempt to exploit a deeply personal family moment for political gain.

Speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, in Uyo, Governor Eno expressed dismay that the video—originally recorded shortly after the passing of his wife last year—has re-emerged just as his administration prepares to mark its second anniversary.

“We are in political times, and so you can expect more of that,” the Governor stated. “My family is intact, and you can see all of them. The event you are talking about took place immediately after my wife died last year. So why is it surfacing now, on the eve of our second anniversary, when we are celebrating the milestones we have achieved?”

The Governor described the situation as a deliberate act by detractors who are seeking to derail his focus and distract from the progress being made under his leadership.

“That teaches me that there are detractors around. My family is intact — that’s Jane herself there. We are a good family,” he said. “The pressure on the kids when they lose a loved one can be traumatic, and we must understand that.”

Governor Eno urged the public and political actors to show compassion and respect the memory of his late wife.

“What I can only appeal to everyone is that they should not bring back the sad memory,” he said. “Allow my wife’s peaceful soul to rest in peace. I can’t be distracted; I remain focused. I will continue to serve the people of Akwa Ibom. I don’t wish what happened to me to happen to anyone else.”

The Governor also had strong words for those peddling the video: “People throwing this thing around — if that is what they wish for themselves, I wish them good luck. My family is intact. Even in politics, the family should be off-limits.”

Governor Eno used the occasion to celebrate Obong Nsima Ekere, congratulating him on his 60th birthday and commending his contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

As the state gears up to celebrate two years of the Eno administration, the Governor maintained that he would not be deterred from delivering on his promises and building a united, peaceful, and prosperous Akwa Ibom.