Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71

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

His death was announced by the Uduaghan family in a statement signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan on Monday, October 19, 2026.

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, describing his passing as a devastating loss to his family and loved ones.

The family said Uduaghan was a respected patriarch, brother, uncle and father figure whose life and public service touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.

Uduaghan played a significant role in Delta State’s administration before becoming governor. He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and later as Secretary to the Delta State Government from 2003 to 2007.

He was subsequently elected governor and led Delta State from 2007 to 2015. According to the family, his years in public office were marked by efforts to promote human development and improve infrastructure across the state.

The family expressed gratitude to God for his life and service, while acknowledging the grief his death had brought to relatives, associates, former colleagues and the people of Delta State.

They also prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and for strength and comfort for everyone mourning his death, adding that his memory and legacy would remain in the lives of those he touched.

Uduaghan’s death marks the loss of a former state leader whose political career spanned several years in public service, including senior administrative positions and two terms as governor of Delta State.