Former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies Days Before 72nd Birthday

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

His family announced that he passed away on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, following a period of illness.

The death was confirmed in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan on behalf of the family. The family expressed profound grief, describing the loss as devastating.

“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,” the statement read.

Uduaghan, who was born on October 22, 1954, was a medical doctor by training and served as Delta State’s Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003. He subsequently held the position of Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007 before being elected as governor.

He served two terms as the governor of the oil-rich state from 2007 to 2015 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

His administration was noted for its “Delta Beyond Oil” agenda, which sought to diversify the state’s economy away from crude oil dependence, alongside a focus on infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment .

During his tenure, he was popularly referred to as the “Talk and Do Governor” by supporters who felt he was committed to executing projects.

The family’s statement highlighted his commitment to public service, noting that “throughout his years in public service, he demonstrated a commitment to the human and infrastructural development of Delta State”.

The family described him as a source of strength and a respected elder whose life touched countless people across the state and Nigeria.

“His passing is a profound loss to our family, the people of Delta State, and Nigeria at large,” the statement added, while praying for the repose of his soul.

The announcement did not disclose the specific cause of death or immediate details regarding funeral arrangements.

His passing comes just months after the Delta State Government had to debunk rumors in June 2026 that he had died, confirming at the time that he was alive.