Former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71.
A family member, who confirmed the death to The Telegraph, said Uduaghan died on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, at a hospital in Abuja after a period of illness.
The family member described his death as a devastating loss to the family and the many people whose lives he touched.
Uduaghan, a medical doctor by training, held several public offices in Delta State before becoming governor. He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and later as Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007, before succeeding James Ibori as governor.
He governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, serving two consecutive terms.
Following his tenure, Uduaghan remained involved in Delta State and national politics.
In a condolence message, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed sadness over Uduaghan’s death, describing him as a detribalised leader whose contributions to the state’s development would not be forgotten.
In the statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, Oborevwori extended his condolences to the late governor’s wife, Roli, his children, the Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation and the people of Delta State.
The governor reflected on Uduaghan’s years in office, highlighting his contributions to infrastructure development and his commitment to the overall progress of the state, irrespective of ethnic differences.
Oborevwori said Uduaghan’s years of public service had left a lasting legacy in Delta State, describing his death as a significant loss to both the state and the country.
He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the former governor’s soul and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his wife, children, family members, the Itsekiri nation and others mourning his passing.
As of the time of filing this report, the Delta State Government had yet to issue a separate official statement on Uduaghan’s death.
