AkwaIbom Gov. Umo Denies Sacrificing Wife To Retain Power Says My Family Is Intact

Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno broke his silence after a viral video where his daughter claimed her late mother, Patience, had been ‘sacrificed.’
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has denied claims suggesting he had anything to do with the death of his late wife, Patience Eno.

Patience passed away on September 26, 2024, at a hospital, surrounded by her family. She had been battling an illness that was never publicly disclosed However, a video recently resurfaced online, stirring controversy. In the video, the governor’s daughter, Jane Eddidiong Ufot, made troubling remarks suggesting that her mother had been “sacrificed.”

In one clip, Jane said, “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 part of the video, she was seen speaking with her young daughter, urging her to repeat emotional phrases. “Tell Grandpa, ‘Do you want them to kill us? Do you want us to die like my baby brother died?’” she asked.

Jane added, “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.”

Reacting to the viral footage during a public event in Uyo, held in celebration of former Deputy Governor Obong Nsima Ekere’s birthday, Governor Eno clarified that the video was recorded shortly after his wife’s death last year. He said its reappearance now was a deliberate move by political opponents to stir controversy.

Jane, along with other family members, was also present at the event. She currently works as the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Health, Safety, and Environment.

Governor Eno addressed the situation directly, saying:
“We’re in political times, so you expect more of this. 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.”

He continued, “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—please stop bringing back sad memories. I’ve lost my wife already. May her perfect soul rest in peace.”

Governor Eno concluded by reaffirming his dedication to public service:
“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.”