Emmanuel Uduaghan, former governor of Delta State, has died at the age of 71, according to a statement by his family.
Uduaghan, who governed the oil-rich state from 2007 to 2015, died on Monday, October 19, 2026, three days before his 72nd birthday.
He had reportedly been ill for some time before his death.
In a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan, the family announced his passing and expressed grief over the loss of their patriarch.
“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 statement reads.
The family said his death had left them devastated, adding that his influence extended beyond his relatives to people across Delta State and Nigeria.
“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.
“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.”
Born on October 22, 1954, Uduaghan began his public service career as Delta State commissioner for health, serving from 1999 to 2003.
He subsequently became secretary to the state government, a position he held from 2003 until 2007, when he assumed office as governor.
Uduaghan won a second term in office and remained governor until 2015, completing eight years at the helm of the state.
His death brings to a close a political career marked by his involvement in the administration and governance of Delta State.
