Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71

Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71 after a brief illness.

 

His death was announced by the Uduaghan family in a statement signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan on Monday.

 

The statement, titled “Announcement of the Passing of His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan”, said the former governor died on the morning of October 19, 2026.

 

Born on October 22, 1954, Uduaghan served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015.

 

The family described his death as a devastating loss, not only to his relatives but also to Delta State and Nigeria.

 

The statement read, “It is with hearts weighed down by immeasurable grief and profound sorrow that we announce the passing to glory of our beloved Father, Brother, Uncle, and Patriarch, His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State, who departed this world on the morning of 19th October 2026.

 

“His passing has left us devastated. Words can hardly express the depth of our sorrow at the loss of a man who meant so much to our family and whose life and service touched countless others across Delta State and Nigeria.”

 

The family described Uduaghan as a father figure, brother, uncle and source of strength whose presence would be deeply missed.

 

Before becoming governor, he served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.

 

The family said he demonstrated a commitment to the human and infrastructural development of the state throughout his years in public service.

 

It added that his death was a profound loss to the family, the people of Delta State and the country, while expressing gratitude to God for his life and legacy.

 

The statement also appealed for prayers for the repose of his soul and comfort for those mourning him.

 

“Rest well, our beloved Father, Brother, and Uncle. Your memory will forever remain in our hearts, and your legacy will endure in the lives of those you touched. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the family added.