Uduak Udoh, an aide to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has drawn criticism after making an unexpected blunder during the funeral of Akwa Ibom State’s First Lady, Patience Umo Eno, last Friday.
While addressing journalists at the solemn event, Udoh made a shocking gaffe by “congratulating” Governor Umo Eno on the passing of his wife.
In his words:
“First of all, let me congratulate His Excellency, the governor of the state, on the demise of his dear, lovely wife. I want to wish all of us a very happy state today. May God bless you. Thank you.”
This comment has sparked widespread reactions among Nigerians. Renowned media personality Reuben Abati criticized Udoh’s statement, describing it as a glaring example of incompetence in leadership.
Abati remarked:
“This is exactly what I mean when I say people with minimal qualifications end up in positions of power. A man has just lost his wife, and you congratulate him at her funeral? It’s this type of behavior that reflects poorly on Nigeria’s leadership selection process. These are the kinds of individuals who, when promoted beyond their competence, embarrass the nation on an international stage with thoughtless comments.”