BREAKING: Ex-Delta Governor Uduaghan Dies At 71, Family Announces

Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

The family of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has announced his death, describing his passing as a devastating loss to the family, the people of Delta State, and Nigeria at large.

Uduaghan reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement issued by the family and signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan on behalf of the family.

In the statement, the family expressed profound grief over the death of the former governor, remembering him as a beloved patriarch, respected elder, and dedicated public servant whose contributions to Delta State would not be forgotten.

“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,” the statement read.

The family said his death had left them devastated, noting that his life and service had touched countless people across Delta State and beyond.

“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 statement added.

Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, held several key positions in the state government before becoming governor.

He served as Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 and later as Secretary to the Delta State Government from 2003 to 2007 before assuming office as governor in 2007.

During his years in public service, he was involved in efforts aimed at advancing human and infrastructural development across the state.

The family described him as a source of strength and a father figure, adding that his presence, guidance, and contributions would be deeply missed.

Despite their grief, the family expressed gratitude to Almighty God for his life, years of public service, and the legacy he left behind.

They also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family, friends, associates, former colleagues, and others mourning his death.

“We pray that Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, will grant his soul eternal rest and comfort our family, friends, associates, former colleagues, and all who mourn this painful loss,” the statement said.