.jpg "Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan (1954–2026)")
Warri, Delta State – Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, is dead.
He passed away on the morning of Monday, 19 October 2026, at the age of 71, just three days before his 72nd birthday on 22 October.
His family announced the sad news in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan.
The statement read in part:
“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.
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.
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.”
Uduaghan, a medical doctor of Itsekiri origin from Warri North Local Government Area, served as Delta State Commissioner for Health (1999–2003), Secretary to the State Government (2003–2007), and Governor of Delta State for two terms (2007–2015).
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sadness over the death. He described the late former governor as a detribalised leader whose contributions to the development of the state would not be forgotten.
Oborevwori noted that Uduaghan’s legacy includes significant investments in human capital development and infrastructure, with the Asaba International Airport standing as one of the enduring monuments of his administration.
The governor extended heartfelt condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Roli, his children, the entire Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation, and the people of Delta State.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
