The Akwa Ibom State government has declared Friday, November 29, as a work-free day to honour the late First Lady, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno. The announcement was made in Uyo on Wednesday through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah.
According to the statement, the decision is intended to give Akwa Ibom residents and well-wishers the opportunity to pay their final respects to Mrs. Patience Eno, who passed away in September 2024 after a brief illness.
Mrs. Eno will be laid to rest in the governor’s hometown of Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsik-Ibium Local Government Area. The SSG said, “Further to the final home-going programme of our departed First Lady, Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, the Akwa Ibom State Government, in consultation with the bereaved family, has declared Friday, 29th November, 2024, a work-free day in honour of our dear mother.”
“This is to enable Akwa Ibomites to pay their last respect to our mother at her obsequies in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsik Ubuim Local Government Area of the state on that day,” Uwah added.
The declaration of a work-free day underscores the government’s effort to unite the people in mourning and celebration of Mrs. Eno’s life. “May the gentle soul of our departed First Lady find repose in the bosom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,” Uwah said.
Mrs. Patience Umo Eno’s passing has left a significant impact on the state, and the government’s decision to declare a work-free day is a testament to her influence and legacy.
The late First Lady was a devoted wife, mother, and public servant, and her contributions to the state will not be forgotten. The government’s decision to honour her memory is a fitting tribute to her life and service.
As the state prepares to bid farewell to Mrs. Eno, the declaration of a work-free day will allow residents to come together and pay their respects to a woman who touched the lives of many.
The funeral rites for Mrs. Patience Umo Eno will take place on Friday, November 29, in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsik-Ibium Local Government Area.
