Former Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan died on Monday morning at 71, leaving behind a long legacy of public service.
The former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has passed away at the age of 71.
The former political leader, who governed Delta State for 8 years, died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, leaving behind his wife, Roli Uduaghan, his children, extended family members, and millions of political supporters across Nigeria.
The sad death was officially announced to the general public through a formal family release signed on behalf of the household by Toju Andre Uduaghan.
Expressing deep sadness over the painful loss of their father and family head, the Uduaghan family described his sudden departure as a heavy blow that words cannot fully explain.
Announcing the death of the former state leader on behalf of the family, Toju Andre Uduaghan stated: “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 family statement further highlighted the huge impact the medical doctor turned politician had on the lives of many people in Delta State and across the entire country during his time in public office.
Sharing how deeply the loss has affected everyone in the household, the official statement noted: “His passing has left us devastated. Words can hardly express the depth of our sorrow at the loss of a man who meant so much to our family and whose life and service touched countless others across Delta State and Nigeria.”
Describing the key leadership role he played for his relatives and community elders during his lifetime, the statement added: “He was a source of strength, a father figure, a beloved brother and uncle, and a respected elder. We will deeply miss his presence and forever cherish the memories and legacy he leaves behind.”
Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan built a long political career in Delta State before becoming governor. He first served as the Delta State Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 under the administration of former Governor James Ibori.
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After his work in the health ministry, he was appointed Secretary to the Delta State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007.
In 2007, he won the governorship election on the Peoples Democratic Party platform and served as governor for two terms until 2015, focusing his administration on peacebuilding, infrastructure development, and human capital growth.
While mourning his passing, the family expressed gratitude to God Almighty for giving him a good life used in serving the public, while offering prayers for comfort for everyone grieving his death.
Offering final words of love and tribute to the late governor, the family statement concluded: “Your memory will forever remain in our hearts, and your legacy will endure in the lives of those you touched.” The late governor is survived by his wife, Roli, and their children.
Political leaders, state governors, and citizens across Nigeria are sending condolence messages to the family as burial plans are being finalized.
Jennifer Baba is a journalist, international news correspondent, and writer at Moderncrux, where she covers artificial intelligence, fintech, emerging technologies, global politics, and international affairs. Based in Nigeria, she is passionate about transforming complex global developments into clear, engaging stories that inform and inspire readers.
