Former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has died at the age of 71, just three days before his 72nd birthday, his family has announced, as reported by Vanguard.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 19, 2026, his son, Toju Anire Uduaghan, who signed on behalf of the family, confirmed that the former governor passed away earlier that morning.
The family expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing him as a beloved patriarch whose life and contributions had a lasting impact on his relatives, the people of Delta State and Nigerians.
Uduaghan was remembered as a respected elder, a source of strength to his family and a prominent figure whose years of public service left a significant legacy.
During his political career, he held several key positions in the Delta State Government. He served as Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 before becoming Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
He subsequently became governor of Delta State in 2007 and remained in office until 2015. Throughout his tenure, he focused on the development of the state's human resources and infrastructure.
The family described his passing as a major loss, not only to his relatives but also to the people of Delta State and the country as a whole.
Despite their grief, the family expressed gratitude to God for Uduaghan's life, his contributions to public service and the legacy he leaves behind.
They also prayed for his soul to find eternal rest and for God to provide comfort and strength to the family, friends, associates, former colleagues and others mourning his death.
