Former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has died at the age of 71, just three days before his 72nd birthday, following a period of illness.
Uduaghan, who governed the oil-rich state from 2007 to 2015, died on Monday morning, 19 October 2026, according to a statement released by his family.
The former governor reportedly died in a hospital in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, where he had been receiving medical attention. Channels Television reported that a family member confirmed his death, although the precise cause has not been publicly disclosed.
His death was announced in a family statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan, who described the loss as devastating to relatives and those who knew him.
The family said Uduaghan’s passing had left a painful gap in their lives, describing him as a father, brother, uncle and respected elder whose influence extended beyond his immediate family.
In the statement, the family said his years in public office had touched many lives across Delta State and Nigeria.
They also expressed gratitude for his contributions to public service and asked for prayers and comfort for everyone mourning him.
From medical doctor to Delta State governor
Born on 22 October 1954, Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan trained as a medical doctor before entering government and building a political career that eventually took him to Delta State’s highest office.
He served as the state’s Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 during the administration of former Governor James Ibori.
Following that appointment, he became Secretary to the State Government in 2003, a position he held until 2007.
His years in both offices placed him at the centre of the state’s administration before he succeeded Ibori as governor in May 2007.
Uduaghan subsequently won another term in 2011 and remained in office until May 2015, when he handed over power to Ifeanyi Okowa.
During his eight years in office, his administration pursued programmes covering healthcare, infrastructure and human capital development.
One of his government’s policy priorities was the Delta Beyond Oil initiative, which sought to reduce the state’s dependence on petroleum revenue by encouraging economic activity in other sectors.
His administration also promoted healthcare initiatives aimed at improving access to medical services, particularly for mothers and young children.
Following his departure from Government House in 2015, Uduaghan remained involved in political activities and discussions concerning Delta State’s development.
Earlier death rumours dismissed
Monday’s announcement came nearly four months after the Delta State Government publicly dismissed earlier reports claiming that Uduaghan had died.
In June 2026, claims about his death circulated on social media, prompting government officials and family members to respond.
Ossai Ovie Success, an aide to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, said at the time that he had contacted Uduaghan’s daughter, Orode, who confirmed that her father was alive.
His media aide, Henry Unini, also rejected the reports, explaining that the former governor had been experiencing health challenges and was receiving treatment.
Those June reports were subsequently identified as false by fact-checking organisation Africa Check.
Unlike the earlier rumours, Uduaghan’s death on 19 October has now been confirmed through a statement issued on behalf of his family.
Family mourns former governor
In its tribute, the Uduaghan family remembered the former governor for his service to Delta State and the role he played in supporting his relatives and associates.
The family said his contributions to the state would remain part of his legacy and expressed hope that those mourning his death would find comfort.
His passing brings to an end a political career spanning several decades, including eight years as governor and earlier appointments in the state’s executive government.
Uduaghan would have celebrated his 72nd birthday on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
As of the initial reports on Monday, the Delta State Government had not issued a formal statement, while details of funeral arrangements had yet to be announced.
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