Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has responded to criticism surrounding his decision to appoint his daughter, Helen Obareki, to oversee the functions of the First Lady’s office and coordinate the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) after the passing of his wife, Patience Umo Eno. Obareki’s new role, which honors her late mother’s legacy, has sparked debate due to questions around the constitutional recognition of the First Lady’s office.
Some critics argue that Obareki’s role should focus solely on GIFA’s activities, rather than include First Lady responsibilities, an office not constitutionally established. In response, Governor Eno clarified that the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare remains responsible for the official coordination of women’s affairs across Akwa Ibom. Speaking at a national service of the All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket, Eno emphasized that the Ministry of Women Affairs handles all formal engagements related to women, leaving no ambiguity between its duties and those associated with GIFA.
Governor Eno noted that while his daughter is indeed the Coordinator of the First Lady’s Office and GIFA, her role is primarily an extension of her previous experience as a personal assistant to her mother. He stressed that Obareki’s hands-on knowledge and involvement in GIFA make her uniquely suited to continue its mission.
Eno further explained that GIFA, originally established by his late wife, will continue as a foundation in her memory, dedicated to impacting lives positively across the state. He emphasized that Obareki’s appointment, based on her competence and years of experience, was intended to honor the work of her mother and maintain continuity within GIFA’s projects.