A few days ago, a picture of Governor Umo Eno and his grandson went viral. Unfortunately, some people chose to read unnecessary meanings into it. But beyond politics and beyond titles, let’s remember something simple: Pastor Umo Eno may be Governor today, but to that little boy, he’s just Grandpa.
I wasn’t privileged to grow up with both of my parents alive. But my wife still has hers, and through them I’ve come to truly understand what it means for children to have grandparents. The joy on my kids’ faces whenever they are with them is something words can hardly capture. The laughter, the hugs, the stories — it’s priceless. And I can imagine Governor Umo Eno sharing that same indescribable joy with his grandson in that moment.
That is why it’s unfair for anyone to dismiss such a pure family bond as “eye service.” What pretense is there in holding your grandson close? What politics is there in caring for him? None at all. That’s simply love — genuine, unfiltered love.
I remember when my wife’s mother came to stay with us for a few months. My children practically abandoned us for her. They clung to her every day, and she loved them with a passion that felt as if she herself had given birth to them. Her affection was so deep, it reminded me of a woman who had prayed for children all her life and was finally blessed with them. That is the beauty of being a grandparent — it’s a second chance at parenthood, but with even more tenderness.
From my years of experience behind the camera, It is important to note that photograph falls into three main categories:
Aware Photos – where the subject knows they’re being photographed and poses intentionally (graduations, weddings, studio shots).
Unaware Photos – where the subject has no idea they’re being photographed, and the camera captures raw, natural emotions (kids playing, surprise moments, family bonding).
Semi-Aware Photos – where the subject knows the camera is there but isn’t stiffly posed, just guided lightly to keep it natural (family walks, lifestyle shoots).
That picture of Governor Eno and his grandson? It was an unaware photo — candid, pure, and authentic.
At the end of the day, no matter who we are — governor, pastor, or ordinary parent — the joy of being with your grandchildren is one of the greatest gifts life can give. And that picture captured it perfectly.