Banner Online News

By Our Correspondent 

Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71, with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori describing him as a detribalised leader whose contributions to the state’s development would not be forgotten.

Uduaghan reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement issued by his family.

The statement, signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan on behalf of the family, announced the death with deep sorrow, describing the former governor as a beloved father, brother, uncle and patriarch.

The family said his passing had left them devastated, noting that his life and service touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.

Reacting to the death, Oborevwori expressed sadness over the loss, extending his condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Roli, his children, the entire Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation and Deltans.

In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the late former governor as a detribalised leader who looked beyond ethnic differences and worked for the overall development of Delta State.

Oborevwori recalled Uduaghan’s years in office, noting that he made significant contributions to infrastructure development and other areas of the state’s growth.

He said the former governor’s years of public service had left a positive mark on Delta State, adding that his death was a loss not only to the state but also to Nigeria.

The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Uduaghan’s soul and asked God to grant his wife, children, family members, the Itsekiri nation and all those mourning the former governor the strength to bear the loss.

Uduaghan, a medical doctor by profession, played prominent roles in Delta State’s administration before emerging as governor in 2007.

He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 under the administration of former Governor James Ibori and subsequently became Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.

He was elected governor in 2007 and served two consecutive terms, leaving office in 2015.

During his eight-year tenure, Uduaghan pursued human and infrastructural development initiatives across the state.

His death marks the passing of a former chief executive of Delta State whose political career spanned several years of public service, including key administrative responsibilities before and during his governorship.