- Gov Oborevwori mourns
A former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71.
Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026.
His death was announced in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan on behalf of the family, which described his passing as a profound loss to his relatives, friends, associates and the people of Delta State.
The family said Uduaghan was a source of strength and a father figure whose life and service touched many people across the state and the country.
“He was a source of strength, a father figure, a beloved brother and uncle, and a respected elder. We will deeply miss his presence and forever cherish the memories and legacy he leaves behind,” the statement said.
Before becoming governor, Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and later as Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
He assumed office as governor in 2007 and served two terms, leaving office in 2015. During his eight years in office, his administration pursued human and infrastructural development across the State.
The family expressed gratitude to God for his life and years of service, while praying for comfort and strength for those mourning his death.“Your memory will forever remain in our hearts, and your legacy will endure in the lives of those you touched,” the family added.
His death marks the end of a chapter in Delta State’s political history, following his years in public service as commissioner, secretary to the state government and governor.
Meanwhile, Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed sadness over the death of Dr. Uduaghan, describing the late former governor as a detribalised leader whose contributions to the development of the state would remain memorable.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori sympathised with Uduaghan’s wife, Roli, his children and the entire Uduaghan family over the loss.
He also extended his condolences to the Itsekiri nation and the people of Delta State, describing the death of the former governor as a painful loss to the state and the country.
Oborevwori recalled Uduaghan’s years in public service, particularly his tenure as governor, and noted his contributions to infrastructure development across Delta State.
The governor said Uduaghan distinguished himself as a leader who looked beyond ethnic considerations and worked for the collective interest and development of the state.
According to him, Uduaghan’s approach to leadership reflected a commitment to the unity and progress of Delta, regardless of ethnic or sectional differences.
“Former Governor Uduaghan was a detribalised leader who contributed immensely to the development of Delta State. His contributions, particularly to infrastructure development, will not be forgotten,” Oborevwori said.
Oborevwori said the late governor’s years of service had left a positive mark on Delta State, stressing that his death was not only a loss to his immediate family but also to the state and Nigeria.
The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Uduaghan’s soul and asked God to grant his family and all those mourning the former governor the strength to bear the loss.
He specifically prayed for comfort for Uduaghan’s wife, children, family members, the Itsekiri nation and all Deltans affected by his death.