By Desire Uzochukwu
Former governor served Delta for eight years, held health commissioner, SSG positions
Former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died, leaving the state and the country mourning a political figure who served in several key government positions over more than a decade.
Uduaghan reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement announcing his passing on behalf of the family.
The statement, signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan for the family, described his death as a profound loss to his loved ones, the people of Delta State and Nigeria.
The family said the former governor was a father figure, brother, uncle and respected patriarch whose life and public service touched many people.
Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007, and governor from 2007 to 2015.
During his eight-year tenure as governor, he oversaw the affairs of the oil-producing state, having previously served in the state administration as commissioner and secretary to the government.
The family said he demonstrated commitment to the human and infrastructural development of Delta State throughout his years in public service.
Expressing grief over his death, the family said his absence would be deeply felt, while pledging to preserve the memories and legacy he left behind.
“His passing is a profound loss to our family, the people of Delta State, and Nigeria at large,” the statement said.
The family also expressed gratitude to God for his life and service, while praying for divine comfort for relatives, friends, associates, former colleagues and others mourning his death.
It added that his memory would remain in the hearts of those who knew him and that his legacy would endure through the lives he touched.
Uduaghan’s death marks the loss of a former state chief executive whose public career spanned health administration, state government coordination and eight years at the helm of Delta State.
The family prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
