Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71

Former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71.

A family member confirmed his death to Channels Television, saying the former governor passed away on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, at a hospital in Abuja following a period of illness.

The family member described his death as a devastating loss to the family and the many people whose lives he touched.

Uduaghan, a medical doctor by profession, held several public positions in Delta State before becoming governor.

He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 before being appointed Secretary to the State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007. He subsequently succeeded James Ibori as governor.

Uduaghan governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, serving two consecutive terms in office.

Following his tenure, he remained active in Delta State and national politics.

Oborevwori Mourns Former Governor

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed sadness over Uduaghan’s death, describing him as a detribalised leader whose contributions to the development of the state would be remembered.

In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, Oborevwori sympathised with the late governor’s wife, Roli, his children, the Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation and the people of Delta State over the loss.

The governor recalled Uduaghan’s years in office, noting that he made significant contributions to infrastructure development and pursued the overall development of the state without regard to ethnic differences.

According to Oborevwori, the former governor’s years of public service left a lasting impact on Delta State, adding that his death was a loss to both the state and the country.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of Uduaghan’s soul and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his wife, children, family members, the Itsekiri nation and others mourning his passing.