Former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71 following a brief illness. His family announced his passing on Monday, October 19, 2026, describing his death as a painful loss to the family, the people of Delta State and Nigeria at large.
Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, died in the early hours of Monday, October 19, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan.
The statement, titled “Announcement of the Passing of His Excellency, Dr. Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan,” expressed profound grief over the death of the former governor, describing him as a beloved father, brother, uncle, patriarch and respected elder whose life and public service touched many people across Delta State and beyond.
The family said his passing had left them devastated, noting that his death marked the end of an important chapter in their lives and represented a significant loss to those who knew him personally and professionally.
According to the statement, Uduaghan was a source of strength and guidance to his family, where he was regarded as a father figure, a cherished brother and uncle, and a respected leader. The family added that his presence would be greatly missed, while the memories of his life and contributions would remain with them.
The statement read in part: “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.”
Uduaghan’s Political Career and Public Service
Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan was a prominent political figure in Delta State who served in several government positions before becoming governor in 2007.
His public service career included serving as Commissioner for Health in Delta State from 1999 to 2003. He subsequently served as Secretary to the Delta State Government between 2003 and 2007 before succeeding James Ibori as governor of the state.
Uduaghan occupied the governorship position for two consecutive terms, remaining in office from 2007 until 2015. During his administration, his government pursued programmes and projects aimed at promoting human development and improving infrastructure across the state.
His experience in the health sector and his subsequent responsibilities within the state government formed part of his background before assuming the highest executive office in Delta State.
Throughout his years in public office, Uduaghan remained associated with the political and administrative affairs of the oil-producing state, which plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy.
His death is expected to draw tributes from political leaders, former government officials, associates and residents of Delta State who encountered him during his years in public service.
Family Mourns Former Delta Governor
In announcing his death, the Uduaghan family acknowledged the wider impact of the loss, extending their grief beyond the immediate family to the people of Delta State and Nigeria.
The family expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the life of the former governor, his years of service and the legacy he left behind.
They also offered prayers for his peaceful repose and asked God to provide comfort and strength to relatives, friends, associates, former colleagues and everyone mourning his death.
The statement added that his memory would remain alive in the hearts of those he loved and the people whose lives he touched throughout his lifetime.
“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,” the family stated.
The announcement concluded with a prayer for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
A Loss to Delta State
Uduaghan’s death brings an end to the life of a former state governor whose career spanned healthcare administration, government coordination and executive leadership.
As the family and his associates mourn his passing, his years in public service remain a significant part of his public legacy.
The family has asked for prayers and comfort as they come to terms with the loss of their patriarch.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements and burial plans were not included in the announcement.
