ASABA: Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71, with his family announcing his passing on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, reportedly died on Monday morning, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan on their behalf. Rapidospace News and other Nigerian media organisations have reported the family’s announcement.
The family described his death as a devastating loss, paying tribute to his contributions to public service and his role as a father, brother, uncle and family patriarch.
In the statement, the family said: 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 added that his death had left a deep void among relatives and others whose lives he touched during his years in public service.
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.
Before becoming governor, Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, where he was involved in the administration of the state’s health sector.
He subsequently served as Secretary to the Delta State Government from 2003 to 2007 before emerging as governor in 2007.
Uduaghan served two terms, remaining in office until 2015. His years in government placed him among the prominent political figures in Delta State, with a career spanning health administration, government coordination and executive leadership.
Reflecting on his public service, the family said he demonstrated a commitment to human and infrastructural development throughout his time in office.
His death is a major loss to his immediate family and has drawn attention across Delta State and Nigeria, where he remained a recognised figure in the state’s political history.
In its tribute, the family described Uduaghan as a source of strength, a respected elder and a beloved family patriarch whose influence extended beyond his immediate relatives.
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 read.
The family also prayed for the repose of his soul and for comfort for relatives, friends, associates, former colleagues and all those 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, it stated.
Concluding its tribute, the family said his memory would remain an enduring source of inspiration to those whose 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, Asamaigor.
The family’s announcement did not disclose the cause of death or provide details of funeral arrangements.
Further information about burial plans and other memorial activities is expected to come from the family.
Uduaghan’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Delta State’s political history, following his years as commissioner, secretary to the state government and two-term governor.
RapidoSpace News extends its condolences to the Uduaghan family, the people of Delta State and all those mourning the former governor.
May his soul rest in peace.
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