Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, who previously served as the governor of Delta State, has passed away at the age of 71.
According to a relative who spoke with Channels Television, the former leader died on Monday morning, October 19, 2026, at a medical facility in Abuja following a battle with illness. Relatives have expressed profound grief over his departure, noting the immense void left behind for his household and the countless citizens whose lives he impacted.
A physician by training, Uduaghan occupied several prominent administrative posts prior to leading the state. He directed the Ministry of Health as commissioner from 1999 until 2003, subsequently serving as the Secretary to the State Government between 2003 and 2007.
He assumed the governorship in 2007 after taking over from James Ibori, completing two full terms before leaving office in 2015. Even after his tenure concluded, he continued to be an influential presence in both regional and national political spheres.
Offering his condolences, the incumbent governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, mourned the passing of his predecessor. Oborevwori commended Uduaghan as a unifying, detribalised statesman whose lasting impact on the growth and progress of Delta State will be fondly remembered.
