The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has mourned former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, recalling his contribution to its Annual Lecture Series and his advocacy for economic diversification and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
In a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and jointly signed by its Chairman, Emmanuel Enebeli, and Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha, the Forum expressed sympathy with the Uduaghan family, describing the former governor’s death as a loss to Delta State and the wider Niger Delta region.
DOPF particularly recalled Uduaghan’s participation in its annual lecture in October 2021, when he delivered the third lecture in the series on the theme, “Niger Delta Economy: Building a New Face for the Region.”
The Forum said the lecture examined the need to diversify the regional economy and establish a sustainable development framework beyond dependence on crude oil.
According to DOPF, Uduaghan advocated greater investment in industrialisation, infrastructure and human capital development, alongside the creation of a business-friendly environment capable of attracting investors and stimulating economic growth.
The Forum noted that his participation remained a significant moment in its institutional history, underscoring the importance of engaging experienced public officeholders and other stakeholders in conversations about the region’s challenges and development prospects.
It said discussions on economic diversification, employment generation, infrastructure development and the effective utilisation of natural resources remained critical to the future of the Niger Delta.
DOPF also reaffirmed the importance of professional journalism in promoting informed public discourse, holding public institutions accountable and sustaining attention on issues affecting the welfare and development of the people.
Uduaghan served Delta State in various capacities before becoming governor in 2007. He was Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007, and governor from 2007 to 2015.
He died on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71, according to an announcement by his family.
The Forum extended its condolences to his wife, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, his children, the wider Uduaghan family, his political associates and the people of Delta State, particularly the Itsekiri Nation.
It prayed that God would comfort the bereaved family and grant the late former governor eternal rest.
DOPF pledged to continue promoting responsible journalism and constructive public engagement on governance, accountability and sustainable development across Delta State and the Niger Delta.
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