Governor Umo Eno Responds to Daughter’s Viral ‘Sacrifice’ Video — “We Are Healing, Not Haunted”
Byline: IDNN Faith, Politics Desk
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has broken his silence over the emotional viral video in which his daughter, Jane Eddidiong Ufot, appears to accuse him of spiritually sacrificing his late wife, Patience Eno, for political power.
The resurfaced video — originally recorded shortly after the former First Lady’s death in September 2024 — exploded across TikTok, WhatsApp, and social media last week, just as the governor marked his second year in office.
In it, Jane, a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Safety & Environment, pleaded:
“Daddy, I’m sending this post to you alone. Please, let’s talk before this destroys everything. I am not a sacrifice. Mummy was—I’m not.”
In another clip, she urges her daughter to tell “Grandpa” not to “let them kill us like my baby brother.”
Personal Grief or Political Weapon?
Speaking at the birthday celebration of former Deputy Governor Obong Nsima Ekere, Governor Eno confirmed the authenticity of the video but clarified its context.
“The video was recorded during a time of deep trauma—just after my wife passed. The children were under immense emotional pressure. It is unfortunate that political detractors are reviving it now.”
He addressed the audience in Uyo, surrounded by family members — including Jane and her husband — to publicly display familial unity.
“My Family Is Intact. My Focus Is Unshaken.”
Eno described the video’s resurrection as calculated political blackmail, timed to distract from his administration’s second anniversary and development strides.
“My family is intact. You can see Jane here. We have grieved. We have healed. I remain committed to the people of Akwa Ibom.”
He appealed to Nigerians to respect the sanctity of grief and family, adding:
“I wouldn’t wish what happened to me on anyone. Politics must never go this low. May my wife’s soul rest in perfect peace.”
Analysts Say Family Dynamics Being Weaponized
Media analysts and clerics say the resurfacing of the video reveals:
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The ruthlessness of political campaigns in Nigeria
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The power of digital archives and emotional content
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The risk of familial pain becoming viral cannon fodder
A spokesperson for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) said:
“This was grief. Not a confession. The church stands with the Governor.”
