President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday expressed deep sadness over the passing of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, highlighting his continued commitment to the political and socio-economic development of Delta State long after completing his tenure in 2015.
Dr. Uduaghan passed away on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71. His death was earlier confirmed in an official statement issued in Warri by Toju Anire Uduaghan on behalf of the family.
In an official condolence statement released on Monday evening from the Presidential Villa in Abuja, signed by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late medical doctor turned politician.
Reflecting on the late leader’s career, President Tinubu noted that Dr. Uduaghan rose through the ranks of public leadership, serving as Delta State Commissioner for Health (1999–2003) and Secretary to the State Government (2003–2007) before his election as governor in 2007.
The President pointed out that during his two consecutive terms as governor from 2007 to 2015, Uduaghan pursued key developmental initiatives to boost healthcare delivery, upgrade infrastructure, and enhance the general welfare of Deltans.
However, President Tinubu specifically underscored that Dr. Uduaghan’s dedication to public service did not end when he handed over power in 2015:
”Even after leaving office in 2015, the late politician remained a prominent and constructive figure in Delta State’s political and socio-economic affairs, consistently contributing to the sustenance of democratic governance and the advancement of public service in Nigeria,” the President said.
Describing Dr. Uduaghan’s death as a profound loss to his family, Delta State, and the nation at large, President Tinubu extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, including the former governor’s widow, Mrs. Roli Uduaghan, his children, and his cousin, former Delta State Governor Chief James Ibori.
President Tinubu urged the government and people of Delta State to draw strength from Dr. Uduaghan’s years of selfless service and the enduring bridges he built across the country’s political landscape, praying that Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest.
