The remains of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, have arrived in Delta State as political leaders, public officials and associates continue to mourn his death and reflect on his contributions to the state and Nigeria.
Uduaghan’s remains arrived at Osubi Airport in Okpe Local Government Area on Tuesday, October 20, where Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore, joined members of the late governor’s family to receive them.
The governor and his wife later visited the deceased’s residence in Warri to commiserate with his widow, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, and other family members.
Oborevwori described the late former governor as his political boss, recalling that Uduaghan supported his political journey and appointed him as one of his special advisers in 2007.
He praised Uduaghan’s contributions to Delta State’s development, particularly the establishment of Asaba International Airport, describing him as a calm and articulate leader whose legacy would remain in the memories of Deltans.
Uduaghan’s death was announced on Monday by his son, Toju. He was 71 years old.
The former governor served Delta State from 2007 to 2015. Before his election as governor, he served as Commissioner for Health and later as Secretary to the State Government under former Governor James Ibori.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to come from prominent political figures, including Peter Obi, Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chiedu Ebie, and former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki.
Obi described Uduaghan as an elder brother, recalling the cordial relationship they shared while serving as governors of Anambra and Delta states, respectively.
He also remembered their collaboration in advocating for the Second Niger Bridge, which he described as an important infrastructure project for national integration, commerce and development across the South-East and South-South regions.
Ebie said Uduaghan’s death represented a collective loss, adding that his years of public service and contributions to Delta State would continue to inspire future generations.
Obaseki, in his tribute, described the former governor’s death as a painful loss to Delta State, the South-South region and Nigeria’s political community.
He praised Uduaghan’s commitment to public service, particularly his efforts to diversify Delta State’s economy through the Delta Beyond Oil initiative and his investments in human development.
The Delta State Government has also declared a three-day mourning period in honour of the former governor, directing that flags on public buildings be flown at half-mast during the period.
Other political leaders, traditional figures and associates have described Uduaghan as a bridge-builder who promoted peace, unity and cooperation across ethnic and political divides.
As tributes continue to pour in, many have highlighted his contributions to healthcare, education, infrastructure and efforts to promote peace in the Niger Delta.
Uduaghan’s death marks the end of a chapter in Delta State’s political history, with mourners remembering him for his years in public service and the relationships he built throughout his career.
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