Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71, his family has announced.
Uduaghan reportedly passed away on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to a statement released by his family and signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan. His death came just three days before his 72nd birthday, which would have been celebrated on October 22.
The family announced the development in a statement titled “Announcement of the Passing of His Excellency, Dr Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON.”
In the statement, the family expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the late former governor as a beloved family member whose life and public service had touched many people across Delta State and Nigeria.
Uduaghan served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015. Before becoming governor, he held key positions in the state government, including Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
A medical doctor by profession, he combined his background in healthcare with a career in public administration and politics. His eight-year tenure as governor placed him at the centre of governance in Delta State, one of Nigeria’s major oil-producing states.
The announcement of his death is a significant loss to his family and the many people who followed his political career and contributions to the state.
The family also expressed appreciation for his life and years of service, while praying for comfort for relatives, friends, associates and others mourning his passing.
Further details surrounding his death and funeral arrangements had not been provided in the initial announcement.
