FORMER Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71, three days before his 72nd birthday.
Uduaghan died in the early hours of Monday, October 19, 2026, following a brief illness, according to a statement issued by his family in Warri.
The statement, signed by Toju Uduaghan on behalf of the family, described his death as a profound loss to the family, 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,” the family said.
The family described Uduaghan as a source of strength, a father figure, beloved brother, uncle and respected elder, adding that his presence would be deeply missed while his memories and legacy would be cherished.
The cause of his death and funeral arrangements were not disclosed.
Uduaghan served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015, completing two terms in office.
Before becoming governor, he served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and later as Secretary to the Delta State Government from 2003 to 2007.
The family said his years in public service contributed to human and infrastructural development in the state.
Reacting to his death, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Sen. David Mark, described Uduaghan’s passing as a painful loss to Delta State, the Niger Delta region and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Monday in Abuja, Mark said Uduaghan’s years in public office placed him at the centre of efforts to promote peace, development and improved living conditions for the people of Delta.
“Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan’s death is a painful loss to Delta State and our country. He was a public servant who devoted significant years to serving his people,” Mark said.
He extended his condolences to the Uduaghan family, the government and people of Delta, as well as the late governor’s friends, associates and political colleagues.
Mark urged the people of Delta to take solace in Uduaghan’s contributions to public service and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.The Uduaghan family also expressed gratitude to God for his life, service and legacy, praying for comfort and strength for all those mourning his death.
