The Death of A’Ibom First Lady: A Caution to Gov. Eno’s Daughter
By Samuel Abasiekong
“I would rather start a family than destroy one.” – Don Marquis
“When you play politics, you have to be prepared for the worst.” – Anonymous
“Indeed, the life of a man is an unfolding scroll, and he can’t see it all until he reaches its end.”
This letter addresses Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, the fifth democratically elected governor of Akwa Ibom State, and the smear campaign initiated by one of his daughters on May 30, 2025.
What haven’t we seen or heard about this governor? During the lead-up to the 2023 gubernatorial election, he was blackmailed over alleged forgery of his secondary school certificate. However, he emerged victorious after 18 litigations and court judgments, including one from the Supreme Court.
Following the death of his wife on Thursday, September 26, 2024, Governor Eno again found himself amid accusations regarding the circumstances of her passing. Despite these attempts at blackmail, he chose not to respond to his accusers in the manner they desired. Instead, he spoke about how instrumental his wife had been in shaping the man he is today, and the public largely accepted his account.
Therefore, it is not surprising that his daughter, Jane Edidiong Ufot, has become a willing participant in the latest smear campaign against her father. Those who have encouraged Jane to act as a tool for blackmail against Governor Eno resemble historical figures in journalism who recycle old tactics used against politicians.
Jane, what you are being used to do against your father is not new. This echoes biblical history, where Absalom sought to undermine his father, King David. This pattern also resonates in Nigeria. In December 2013, Iyabo Obasanjo, the daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, penned an 11-page open letter accusing her father of being a “liar, manipulator, and two-faced hypocrite.” She alleged that he mistreated women and neglected his family.
Her campaign against her father resulted in broader criticisms of his pursuit of power, claiming that he had abandoned his responsibilities as a father and neglected his children and grandchildren.
Now, as we approach the 2027 general election in Nigeria, political manoeuvring, betrayal, and blackmail are on the rise, especially with the May 29, 2027 inauguration looming ahead. Candidates are beginning to signal their interest in the upcoming election, and politicians must brace themselves for the worst possible experiences.
For Pastor Umo Eno, those who previously slandered him with accusations of certificate forgery are resurfacing, but this time, their claims should not disturb him.
To Jane Edidiong Ufot and her sponsors, I leave you with the wise words of the esteemed 18th-century American humorist, journalist, and author Don Marquis: “I would rather start a family than destroy one.”
Jane, I watched the video in which you criticized your father, our amiable governor. I must say that the video seemed orchestrated and influenced by forces beyond your control. It appears you have been manipulated by stronger influences.
There is still a path to resolution that aligns with your father’s wishes. Remember, Governor Eno is your father, and we are the governed. Many of us who stand with him cannot accept your accusations based solely on your personal family matters. We all have families, each with its own challenges, and most of us would not stoop to such levels.
Oh, Jane, I wish you understood the family challenges faced by political figures, from past and present presidents to ministers and beyond. Influential businesspeople are not exempt from such trials either.
When I confronted the reality that life often unfolds in unexpected ways, I wrote in one of my books, Society, Issues, My Depth, the Fact: “Indeed, the life of a man is an unfolding scroll, and he can’t see it all until he reaches its conclusion.”
Jane, family is a sacred institution, and even the devil understands its importance. This is why he often targets families first.
To HE Pastor Eno, I recommend that the video be thoroughly investigated and that the so-called prophet who has taken Mrs Jane Edidiong Ufot captive to manipulate her for gains be Apprehended and prosecuted.
By Samuel Abasiekong- Abasiekong, senior editor and reporter in French and English language @ www.9news.com
[email protected]
+2348062700985
