By Yahaya Idris
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has expressed deep sorrow over the reported passing of former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, describing his death as a painful loss to the state, the Itsekiri nation and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Monday, October 19, by Valentine Onojeghuo, Esq., State Publicity Secretary of the APC in Delta State, the party’s State Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, JP, said the former governor’s years of public service and contributions to Delta State would remain an important part of the state’s political and developmental history.
Arenyeka described Uduaghan as a detribalised leader, accomplished public servant and statesman who promoted unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in Delta State.
“The passing of Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan is a painful loss to Delta State and our country. He was a leader who recognised that our diversity is a source of strength and that the progress of Delta State depends on our collective commitment to unity, peace and development,” the APC chairman said.
APC Highlights Uduaghan’s Contributions to Delta Development
The party recalled that Uduaghan served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015, after previously holding positions as Commissioner for Health and Secretary to the State Government.
According to Arenyeka, the former governor’s years in public office represented a significant chapter in the state’s development, with contributions spanning infrastructure, healthcare and governance.
“Dr. Uduaghan occupied important positions in the service of our dear state and contributed to its growth in different capacities. His years in public office formed a significant chapter in the evolution of Delta State, and his contributions to infrastructure, healthcare and governance will remain part of the state’s collective history,” he said.
Arenyeka also highlighted the late former governor’s ability to engage with people across ethnic, political and cultural divides, describing the quality as an important lesson for leaders and residents of the state.
He stressed that the interests of Delta State should take precedence over ethnic considerations and partisan differences, adding that inclusive leadership and peaceful coexistence remained essential to the state’s progress.
“Beyond political affiliations, we must acknowledge the enduring value of leadership that brings people together. Dr. Uduaghan’s reputation as a detribalised leader reminds us that the interests of Delta State must always rise above ethnic considerations and partisan differences,” the chairman added.
Delta APC Commiserates with Uduaghan’s Family, Itsekiri Nation
The Delta APC chairman extended the party’s condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Dame Roli Uduaghan, his children, the entire Uduaghan family, the Itsekiri nation and all Deltans mourning the loss.
He urged residents of the state to honour the former governor’s memory by upholding the principles of unity, peaceful coexistence and service to humanity.
On behalf of the leadership and members of the Delta State APC, Arenyeka prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed former governor eternal rest and give his family, loved ones and all those affected by his passing the strength to bear the loss.
“May the soul of Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, rest in perfect peace. His passing is painful, but the memories of his service to Delta State and the bonds he built across our diverse communities will remain with us,” he said.