Senate mourns former Delta State Governor Uduaghan
Senate Mourns Late Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, Calls for Preservation of His Legacy
By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — The Nigerian Senate has expressed its condolences following the death of former Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, who passed away on October 19, 2026, just three days shy of his 72nd birthday.
In a motion presented on Wednesday, the Senate extended its sympathies to the Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation, and the citizens of Delta State affected by his passing. The motion, titled “Demise of His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, Former Governor of Delta State (2007-2015),” was sponsored by Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Delta South, and co-sponsored by fellow APC members Senators Ned Nwoko and Ede Dafinone, as well as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
During the session, the Senate observed a moment of silence in honor of Uduaghan, acknowledging his years of service to both Delta State and Nigeria. Senators prayed for the repose of his soul and offered strength to his family, friends, and constituents during this difficult time.
In presenting the motion, Senator Thomas highlighted Uduaghan’s legacy as a distinguished medical practitioner and statesman. Uduaghan was born on October 22, 1954, in Abigborodo, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State. He trained as a medical doctor at the University of Benin before transitioning into public administration.
Uduaghan began his public service career in 1999 as Delta State’s Commissioner for Health, a position he held until 2003, before serving as Secretary to the Delta State Government until 2007. He was subsequently elected Governor, serving from May 29, 2007, to May 29, 2015.
The Senate recognized Uduaghan’s emphasis on healthcare delivery during his administration, which included significant programs aimed at reducing medical costs for vulnerable populations, such as free maternal healthcare and under-five care initiatives. His efforts also led to enhancements in tertiary healthcare infrastructure, exemplified by the development of the Delta State University Teaching Hospital at Oghara.
Furthermore, Uduaghan’s policies focused on educational development, infrastructural progress, and economic diversification. The Senate commended his Delta Beyond Oil agenda, which aimed to lessen the state’s reliance on crude oil revenue by promoting agriculture, tourism, and small- to medium-sized enterprises.
Senators also acknowledged Uduaghan’s commitment to youth empowerment and sports development, which strengthened Delta State’s reputation in national athletics. His administration prioritized peace-building and community engagement amid the challenges in the Niger Delta region.
In closing, Senators reflected on Uduaghan’s leadership style—characterized by humility, accessibility, and compassion—and noted that his tenure marked significant advancements across various sectors in Delta State. The Senate urged the Delta State Government to preserve the records of Uduaghan’s public programs and initiatives as a testament to his contributions to the region’s development.
Senators expressed profound sadness at his passing, emphasizing the substantial loss it represents for his family, the Itsekiri community, the government of Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole.
