Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Delta Unity Group (DUG) has mourned the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as a healer, bridge builder and statesman who promoted unity across ethnic divides.
The group expressed deep shock and sorrow over Uduaghan’s death, which it said occurred in the early hours of Monday, October 19, 2026.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, by its National Publicity Secretary, Sir Sunny Areh, DUG said the former governor’s death represented not merely the loss of a former public office holder but the departure of a unifying figure in Delta State.
According to the group, Uduaghan embodied the diverse ethnic identities of the state, describing him as “an Itsekiri by birth, Urhobo by adoption, Isoko by bond, Anioma by love and Ijaw by service”.
It said that, in a state often challenged by ethnic divisions, the late governor demonstrated a commitment to bringing people together.
DUG noted that Uduaghan’s medical background influenced his approach to governance, adding that he brought calmness, compassion, consultation and competence to public service.
The group recalled his career from the consulting room at the Delta Steel Company Hospital to his appointment as Commissioner for Health, Secretary to the State Government and, eventually, governor between 2007 and 2015.
It credited him with efforts to strengthen primary healthcare and promote development across the state.
The statement also highlighted Uduaghan’s Delta Beyond Oil vision, describing it as a deliberate attempt to reduce the state’s dependence on oil revenue and broaden its economic base.
According to DUG, his investments in human capital, peace and security, rural healthcare and education, alongside his policy of “finishing strong”, remain among his enduring contributions to Delta State.
The group further described the former governor as a gentleman who preferred reconciliation to division, saying his quiet disposition did not diminish the significance of his decisions.
“ He was a gentleman in an era of brashness. A man who never raised his voice, but whose quiet decisions spoke volumes. A leader who believed power should be used to reconcile, not to divide,” the statement said.
DUG extended its condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan; his children, Orode and Toju; the Uduaghan family of Abigborodo; the Itsekiri Nation; and the government and people of Delta State.
It also commiserated with former Delta State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, whom it described as having lost an elder brother, confidant and faithful lieutenant.
The group said Uduaghan exemplified loyalty, brotherhood and service through his commitment to his political associates, his people and the state.
“He has finished his race. He has kept his faith,” the statement added.
DUG prayed for the peaceful repose of the former governor’s soul and for God to grant his family and the people of Delta State the strength to bear the loss.
It concluded its tribute by describing him as the “Doctor-Governor” and the “gentle giant of Delta politics”.
