Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71

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

He died on Monday morning, October 19, 2026, after a brief illness.

His death was announced in a statement issued by his family and signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan.

“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 family said.

The family described Uduaghan as a beloved father, brother, uncle and patriarch whose life of public service touched many lives across Delta State and Nigeria.

“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 Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003, and as Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.

He was elected governor in 2007 and served two terms until 2015.

The family said his contributions to human and infrastructural development would remain a lasting part of his legacy, describing his death as a profound loss to his family, Delta State and the nation.

“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 added.