BREAKING: Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71

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

Uduaghan, who governed Delta State for two consecutive terms between 2007 and 2015, reportedly passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026, following a period of illness.

His death was announced by his family in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan, who described the loss as a moment of profound grief for the family.

The statement said the former governor died on the morning of October 19, expressing sorrow over the death of a family patriarch whose life and public service touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.

The family described Uduaghan as a source of strength, a father figure, a beloved brother and uncle, and a respected elder whose presence would be deeply missed.

It added that his memories and legacy would remain cherished by those who knew him.

Born on October 22, 1954, Uduaghan began his career in public service in Delta State before becoming governor in 2007.

He previously served as the state’s Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003. He was later appointed Secretary to the Delta State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007, before succeeding James Ibori as governor.

Uduaghan led Delta State for eight years, completing his tenure in 2015.

His death marks the loss of a former state chief executive whose political career spanned several years of public service in the oil-producing state.