Emmanuel Uduaghan, former governor of Delta State, has died at the age of 71.

Uduaghan governed Delta State for two terms, from 2007 to 2015, and had been ill for some time.

According to TheCable, he died on Monday, October 19, three days before his 72nd birthday.

His family announced his death in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan.

“It is with hearts weighed down by immeasurable grief and profound sorrow that we announce the passing to glory of our beloved Father, Brother, Uncle, and Patriarch, His Excellency, Dr. Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State, who departed this world on the morning of 19th October 2026,” the statement reads.

“His passing has left us devastated. Words can hardly express the depth of our sorrow at the loss of a man who meant so much to our family and whose life and service touched countless others across Delta State and Nigeria.

“He was a source of strength, a father figure, a beloved brother and uncle, and a respected elder. We will deeply miss his presence and forever cherish the memories and legacy he leaves behind.”

Uduaghan, born on October 22, 1954, served as Delta health commissioner between 1999 and 2003.

He was subsequently appointed as the secretary to the state government from 2003 to 2007.