President Bola Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other prominent Nigerians have expressed condolences following the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, who died on Monday, October 19, at the age of 71.

The family announced his death in a statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan, describing it as a profound loss to the family, Delta State and Nigeria.

The statement said the former governor died in the morning, leaving behind a legacy of public service and contributions to the development of the state. The family expressed gratitude for his life and service and prayed for comfort for relatives, friends, associates and others mourning him.

Tinubu, in a condolence message, described Uduaghan as a public servant whose leadership focused on Delta State’s development and service to Nigeria.

The President recalled that Uduaghan served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007 before becoming governor in 2007. He governed the state for two terms, leaving office in 2015.

Tinubu said the former governor pursued initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare delivery and the welfare of residents. He extended condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Roli, his children, relatives, friends and political associates.

The Delta State Government declared three days of mourning in honour of the former governor, effective from October 19. Oborevwori directed that flags on public buildings across the state be flown at half-mast during the period.

Oborevwori described Uduaghan as a leader who looked beyond ethnic differences and worked towards the overall development of Delta State. He commiserated with the deceased’s family, the Itsekiri nation and residents of the state, noting his contributions to infrastructure development during his tenure.

The immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, also mourned his predecessor, describing his death as a painful loss. He acknowledged Uduaghan’s role in the state’s history and extended condolences to his wife, children and other family members.

National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, said Uduaghan’s death was a loss to Delta State, the Niger Delta and the country. He noted the former governor’s years in public service and contributions to development, peace and improved living conditions.

The Christian Association of Nigeria, through its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, also expressed condolences. Okoh highlighted Uduaghan’s role in promoting dialogue, confidence-building and national unity during a period of political tension.

Other individuals who paid tribute included Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor, Senator Ede Dafinone and former Nigerian ambassador to Thailand, Oma Djebah.

High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, also mourned the former governor, recalling his involvement in efforts to address insecurity and promote peace in the Niger Delta, including support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

Uduaghan, a medical doctor by profession, was born on October 22, 1954, and would have turned 72 three days after his death. He served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007, and governor from 2007 to 2015.

He remained active in political and socio-economic affairs after leaving office, and his death has prompted tributes from political leaders, public officials and associates across the country.