A Pillar Gone Too Soon: Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Mourns the Passing of Former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan

The death of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, who passed away on the morning of Monday, 19th October, 2026, at the age of 71, has elicited heartfelt reactions from leaders across the nation. Led by the incumbent Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who expressed deep personal and official grief over the demise of the elder statesman, the state is coming to terms with the loss of its revered former patriarch.

​Mourning the late former governor following the official family statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan, Governor Oborevwori highlighted their close personal relationship, remembering Uduaghan—a medical doctor by training who served as Commissioner for Health, SSG, and Governor from 2007 to 2015—for his exceptional simplicity, uncommon humility, and constant willingness to impart his wealth of political and administrative experience to the younger generation of leaders.

​Reflecting on Uduaghan’s decades of stellar public service, Oborevwori noted that his contributions remain an indelible part of Delta State’s history. He specially underscored Uduaghan's passionate belief in people, massive investments in human capital development, and visionary projects like the Asaba International Airport, which stand as enduring monuments to his legacy.

​On behalf of the government and the good people of Delta State, Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the late former governor's wife, children, family members, the entire Itsekiri nation, and all Deltans, praying that God grant his soul eternal rest.