The family of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has announced his death, describing his passing as a devastating loss to the family, Delta State and Nigeria.
Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71, just three days before his 72nd birthday.
Uduaghan reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by his son, Toju Anire Uduaghan, on behalf of the family.
In the statement, the family expressed profound grief over the loss of the former governor, describing him as a beloved father, brother, uncle and patriarch whose life and public service touched many 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 said his death had left them devastated, adding that his absence would be deeply felt by relatives, friends, associates and others who encountered him throughout his lifetime.
They described Uduaghan as a source of strength, a father figure and a respected elder whose contributions to public service and the lives of those around him would remain part of his enduring legacy.

Uduaghan’s Years in Public Service
Before becoming governor, Uduaghan held several key positions in the Delta State Government, building a career that spanned healthcare administration and state governance.
He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 before being appointed Secretary to the Delta State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007.
In 2007, he became governor of Delta State and remained in office until 2015, serving two terms.
During his eight years as governor, his administration pursued programmes and projects aimed at advancing human development and improving infrastructure across the oil-producing state.
His background as a medical doctor and his earlier experience in the state’s health sector formed part of his professional and administrative journey before and during his time in public office.
Uduaghan’s years in government placed him among the political figures who played significant roles in Delta State’s administration and development during the period.

Family Pays Tribute to Late Ex-Governor
In its statement, the family described Uduaghan’s death as a profound loss not only to his immediate relatives but also to the people of Delta State and Nigeria at large.
The family expressed gratitude to God for his life, years of service and the legacy he leaves behind, while offering prayers for strength and comfort for everyone mourning his passing.
“We are grateful to Almighty God for his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind,” the statement added.
The family further prayed that God would grant the late former governor eternal rest and provide comfort to relatives, friends, associates, former colleagues and others affected by the loss.
His death is expected to draw tributes from political leaders, former government officials, associates and residents of Delta State, where he served as governor for eight years.
As the family mourns the loss of its patriarch, Uduaghan’s record of public service, including his time as Commissioner for Health, Secretary to the State Government and governor, remains a significant part of his public life.
The family’s announcement did not provide details of funeral arrangements.


