Calabar, Nigeria – The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, accompanied by a delegation of government officials and esteemed statesmen, paid a visit of condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.
They offered their sympathies for the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, whose final rites will be observed this weekend.
During the solemn encounter, Governor Otu expressed: “Your Excellency, my esteemed colleague, I empathize with the profound sorrow you are experiencing; we stand in solidarity with you during this time of grief. The loss you are enduring is colossal, and no one can truly replace the unique presence of your beloved wife. Each individual is distinct, just as every finger bears its own uniqueness. I have faith that the Divine will be a constant companion to you.”
Governor Otu relished the deep connection that existed between the Akwa Ibom State Governor and his late wife, which he described as “harmonious.”
“The duration of one’s life and the unity of a family do not define the impact left behind; it is the enduring legacy that fortifies the bonds that tie us together,” Otu averred.
Leaning on biblical injunction which instructs that we give thanks to God in all circumstances, Governor Otu prayed: “We offer our gratitude for the events that have transpired. I am confident that the Almighty will grant you the resilience and inner strength to navigate this loss.”
Adding, thus, “On behalf of the entire populace of Cross River State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to you for the loss of your cherished wife. This is a monumental loss not only for the people of Akwa Ibom but also for all the residents of Cross River State. Our two states continue to share a profound unity and affinity; we stand by your side in this time of sorrow. We are here to walk alongside you, to support you, and to shed tears with you. Please know that we stand firmly with you, not just as neighbours.”
In response, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State expressed his gratitude to his Cross River counterpart for the visit, acknowledging that “The presence of a brother is evident through the grand delegation that visited.”
Continuing, he said, “We are deeply appreciative of your condolences. It is the collective sharing of grief in moments like these that provides us with solace and encouragement. It is this outpouring of love and support that sustains us.”
Emphasising the challenging nature of their roles as leaders Governor Eno quipped: “This is a trying period. The responsibilities we bear do not allow us the luxury of mourning when faced with such circumstances. The demands of leadership are relentless. We have pledged to prioritise the common good over personal interests. This places us in a position where we oscillate between personal sorrow and public duties. The support and encouragement we receive from the people truly help us navigate these complexities. Your visit, as you rightly mentioned, signifies the presence of a brother.”
“I tell people that in mourning my wife, there will be no closure of some sort. It will be a lifetime pain. And you have rightly said so; No one will be able to replace her. In my heart. It’s not possible. As you aptly mentioned, no one can ever fill the void she has left in my heart; it is an impossibility.
“We believe that this was fated by the Divine; despite our exhaustive efforts to seek medical intervention and offer prayers, we find solace in the belief that there is a higher purpose. We draw comfort from our faith, knowing that we will reunite with her eternally. Her departure has amplified her essence, as evidenced by the outpouring of love we have received. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you and all those who have joined us today. May God grant us longevity and fortitude, shielding us from such adversities in the future. Amen.”
Accompanying Governor Otu in the Cross River State delegation were his wife Bishop Mrs Eyoanwan Otu, the Speaker of the State legislature, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, other key officials of the State legislature, Commissioners, and members of the State executive cabinet, notably the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, and the Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.
Other distinguished statesmen of Cross River origin, such as the former Military Administrator of Kwara State, Col. PAM Ogar (rtd.), former federal Minister Mr Edem Duke, Chairman of the State Civil Service Commission, Sir Maurice Effiwat, and more than seven local government council chairmen, were also present, among others.
