Former Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan has died at the age of 71, according to a statement issued by his family on Monday, October 19, 2026.
The former governor reportedly passed away on Monday morning, just three days before his 72nd birthday. His death was announced by his family in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan.
The announcement brings to an end the life of a prominent political figure who spent several years in public service in Delta State, first as a medical practitioner and government official before rising to the state’s highest political office.
The family expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing him as a beloved father, brother, uncle and patriarch whose life touched people across Delta State and Nigeria.
“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 added that his death had left them devastated, noting that he was a source of strength and a respected elder whose presence would be deeply missed.
Uduaghan was born on October 22, 1954. Before becoming governor, he served as Delta State Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 under former Governor James Ibori.
He subsequently became Secretary to the Delta State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007, before succeeding Ibori as governor.
Uduaghan governed Delta State for two consecutive terms from 2007 to 2015. During his administration, his government pursued development initiatives focused on peace and security, infrastructure, and human capital development.
His administration also promoted the vision of a “Delta Beyond Oil,” aimed at broadening the state’s economic prospects beyond its dependence on petroleum resources.
His background in medicine and experience in government made him a prominent figure in Delta State’s political landscape. Even after leaving office, he remained a recognised personality in the state’s political affairs.
The family expressed gratitude for his life and years of service, while praying for comfort for relatives, friends, associates and others mourning his death.
Uduaghan’s passing marks the loss of a former state leader whose political career spanned healthcare administration, government service and eight years as governor.
