Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed deep sorrow over the reported death of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing his passing as a profound loss to his family and all those who knew him.
The former governor reportedly died on Monday morning at the age of 71, according to a family announcement issued by Toju Anire Uduaghan. The family described the deceased as a beloved father, brother, uncle and patriarch whose death had left them devastated.
In her condolence message, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan paid tribute to the late elder statesman, highlighting his importance as a family patriarch and his contributions to public service in Delta State.
“Words are painfully inadequate to express the depth of my sorrow at the passing of His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan. His death is a profound loss, and my heart goes out to the entire Uduaghan family at this incredibly difficult moment,” she said.
The senator noted that the death of a family patriarch creates a void that cannot easily be filled, explaining that the loss extends beyond the departure of a loved one to the absence of a figure whose wisdom, counsel and presence have become part of a family’s history.
She said the late governor would be remembered not only for his political career but also for his role as a father figure, a respected elder and a source of support to those around him.
“Today, we mourn not merely the passing of a distinguished former governor, but the loss of a father figure, a revered elder and a man whose presence meant so much to those privileged to know him. The pain of such a departure is difficult to capture in words,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
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Uduaghan’s Contributions to Delta State
Beyond the personal loss suffered by his family, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan acknowledged the late governor’s contributions to public administration and governance in Delta State.
Uduaghan held several important positions in the state government before becoming governor. He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and as Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
He subsequently served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015, completing two terms in office.
Reflecting on his years in public service, Akpoti-Uduaghan said that although public office is temporary, the impact of a life dedicated to service can endure long after an individual leaves office.
“Public office eventually comes to an end, but the memories of a life devoted to service endure. As we grieve his departure, we must also give thanks to God for the years He granted him, the responsibilities he discharged and the legacy he leaves behind. May that legacy remain a source of strength and consolation to his family,” she said.
Senator Prays for Comfort for the Bereaved Family
The senator also extended her condolences to the family, friends, associates and former colleagues of the deceased, praying that God would grant them the strength to endure the painful period of mourning.
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She expressed hope that cherished memories of the former governor and the impact of his life would provide comfort to those grieving his death.
“To the Uduaghan family, I pray that the Almighty God will grant you the fortitude to bear this painful loss. May He give you the strength to endure the days of grief, the peace to find comfort in cherished memories, and the grace to celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark,” she added.
Family Pays Tribute to Late Former Governor
In its announcement, the Uduaghan family described the deceased as a source of strength and a respected elder whose life and service touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.
The family expressed gratitude to God for his life, public service and the legacy he left behind, while also praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and divine comfort for everyone affected by his passing.
The statement read: “We are grateful to Almighty God for his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind. 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.”
The family concluded its tribute with an emotional farewell, saying the late patriarch’s memory would remain alive in the hearts of those he loved and the 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.”
The reported death of the former governor marks a moment of mourning for the Uduaghan family and those who worked with him throughout his years in public service. As tributes continue to focus on his family life and political career, his tenure as Delta State governor from 2007 to 2015 remains a significant part of his public record.
