Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71.
Uduaghan reportedly died after a brief illness on Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement by his family.
The statement, signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan, announced the death of the former governor, describing it as a devastating loss to the family, Delta State and Nigeria.
Titled “Announcement of the Passing of His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan,” the statement said the former governor died on the morning of October 19.
“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 Uduaghan as a father figure, brother, uncle and source of strength whose absence would be deeply felt.
Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007 before becoming governor in 2007.
He governed the state for two terms, leaving office in 2015.
The family said he demonstrated a commitment to the human and infrastructural development of Delta State throughout his years in public service.
“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 added.
The family prayed for the repose of his soul and asked God to comfort those mourning his death.
“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,” the statement concluded.
Uduaghan was born on October 22, 1954.