By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

Former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan has died at the age of 71, just three days before his 72nd birthday.

His family announced his death in a statement signed by his son, Toju Anire Uduaghan, on behalf of the family. According to the statement, the former governor died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026.

The family expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Uduaghan as a beloved father, brother, uncle and family patriarch whose life and public service made a lasting impact on 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, noting that his contributions extended beyond his immediate relatives to many people across the state and the country.

They described him as a source of strength, a father figure and a respected elder whose presence would be greatly missed.

The statement added that although his death had created a painful void, the family would continue to cherish the memories of his life and the legacy he left behind.

Uduaghan served Delta State in several key government positions before and during his time as governor.

He was Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and later became Secretary to the Delta State Government, serving between 2003 and 2007.

He subsequently became governor in 2007 and remained in office until 2015, overseeing the state’s administration for eight years.

According to his family, his years in public service were marked by efforts towards the development of Delta State, particularly in human and infrastructural growth.

His death represents a significant loss to his family, the people of Delta State and Nigeria, where he served in various public capacities.

The family expressed gratitude to God for his life, years of service and the legacy he left behind.

They also prayed for divine comfort for relatives, friends, associates, former colleagues and others 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,” the statement added.

Uduaghan’s death has also drawn reactions from political leaders and public figures, with tributes highlighting his years of service to Delta State and his contributions to public administration.

As condolences continue to come in, the former governor is being remembered for his role in the state’s political leadership and his years of service to its people.