By Lizzy Chirkpi
Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71.
Uduaghan reportedly died after a brief illness on Monday morning, October 19, 2026, according to a statement issued by his family announcing his death.
The statement, titled “Announcement of the Passing of His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan,” described his death as a devastating loss to the family and the wider community.
“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 described the late former governor as a respected elder and a source of strength whose life and public service touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.
“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,” it added.
Uduaghan held several key positions in the Delta State Government before becoming governor.
He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 before being appointed Secretary to the State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007.
He was elected governor in 2007 and served two consecutive terms, leaving office in 2015.
Reflecting on his years in public service, the family said he remained committed to the development of Delta State, particularly in the areas of human capital development and infrastructure.
It described his death as a significant loss not only to his relatives but also to the people of Delta State and Nigeria at large.
“His passing is a profound loss to our family, the people of Delta State, and Nigeria at large. We are grateful to Almighty God for his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind,” the statement said.
The family prayed for the repose of his soul and for divine comfort for those mourning him.
“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,” it added.
The statement concluded with a heartfelt tribute, pledging to preserve his memory and celebrate the lives he touched.
“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.
“May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”