The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has expressed its heartfelt sympathy to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, following the loss of his beloved wife, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, who passed away recently. The PFN, representing millions of Pentecostals across the nation, conveyed their condolences, urging the governor to remain steadfast in faith during this period of sorrow.
Speaking in Calabar on behalf of the Christian body, PFN National Publicity Secretary and Archbishop-elect of Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI), Dr. Emmah Gospel Isong, encouraged Governor Eno not to despair but to look to God for comfort and strength. Dr. Isong, also the General Overseer of CCCI, which is headquartered in Calabar, reminded the governor that God’s grace would see him through this difficult time.
In a condolence letter addressed to Governor Umo Eno, dated September 29, 2024, and signed by PFN National President, His Eminence Bishop Dr. Wale Oke, the PFN expressed its prayers for the governor and his family. The letter was made available to the press in Calabar on Sunday. Bishop Oke prayed for divine protection and comfort for the grieving family as they navigate this profound loss.
The letter, titled “Perplexed, But Not in Despair”, expressed the shock with which the PFN received the news of Mrs. Patience Umo Eno’s passing. “We received with great shock the news of the transition of your dear wife, Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, a peaceful mother of the state,” the letter read.
“On behalf of millions of Pentecostals in Nigeria, we hereby extend our heartfelt condolences and sincere prayers to you and your family in this trying moment of your life,” the PFN added, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt across the Pentecostal community.
Bishop Oke praised the late First Lady’s character, describing her as “not just a compassionate First Lady but a mother extraordinary,” whose legacy of kindness and grace will be long remembered by those who knew her.
In offering spiritual solace to the grieving governor, Bishop Oke referenced scripture, quoting 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”
The PFN’s message also acknowledged Governor Umo Eno’s own standing as a Pentecostal preacher and spiritual leader, reminding him that his faith would be his strongest pillar during this challenging period. “Your Excellency, as a Pentecostal preacher and father of faith in your own right, we need not remind you of the scriptures,” the letter noted.
“May the soul of our mother find rest in Christ, and may you find strength to continue in ministry and to pursue the state functions entrusted into your hands,” Bishop Oke concluded, offering prayers for the governor’s resilience and continued leadership despite the painful loss.
