Working People United (WoPU), a broad-based national coalition of workers, professionals, and artisans for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shetima has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, who reportedly died on Monday, October 19, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 71 years old.
His death came just three days before his 72nd birthday, which would have been marked on October 22, 2026.
In a statement issued by its Coordinator-General, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, the immediate past president of Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, and former NLC Chairman Delta state chapter, when Dr Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan was Governor, extends heartfelt condolences to the Uduaghan family, the Government and people of Delta State, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on the loss of a respected statesman and public servant.
According to WoPU, Dr. Uduaghan lived a life dedicated to service and made enduring contributions to the development of Delta State and Nigeria. The coalition described him as a leader whose impact will be remembered for generations.
Comrade Akporeha, who worked closely with the late governor during his tenure as Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Delta State, paid tribute to Dr. Uduaghan’s cordial relationship with organized labour and his commitment to the welfare of workers and people across all walks of life.
“On behalf of the entire Working People United family, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, the Government of Delta State, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori over this painful loss.
“Dr. Uduaghan lived a purposeful and impactful life, making significant contributions to public service and the growth of Delta State. While his death is deeply painful, we encourage his family to take solace in the remarkable legacy he leaves behind, including the values he upheld and the lives he positively influenced,” the statement read.
WoPU acknowledged the profound grief associated with losing a loved one whose life and experiences formed an integral part of family and community history. The coalition assured the bereaved family of its prayers and support during this difficult period.
The group further urged family members, friends, associates, and admirers of the former governor to draw strength from his accomplishments, years of service, and enduring contributions to society.
Reflecting on his personal interactions with Dr. Uduaghan, Comrade Akporeha noted that the former governor consistently demonstrated a labour-friendly disposition and genuine concern for humanity. He also commended Governor Oborevwori’s declaration of a three-day mourning period in honour of the late statesman, describing the gesture as a fitting tribute to his legacy and service to the state.
WoPU offered prayers for divine comfort, strength, and peace for the Uduaghan family, asking God to sustain them through their time of mourning.
“We pray that Almighty God grants the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May He comfort them in their grief, strengthen them in their moments of sorrow, and grant eternal rest to the soul of Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations,” the statement concluded.
Born on October 22, 1954, Dr. Uduaghan dedicated several decades of his life to public service in Delta State. He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 before becoming Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
He later served as Governor of Delta State for two consecutive terms between 2007 and 2015, a period during which he played a prominent role in shaping the state’s political and administrative landscape. His contributions remain a significant part of Delta State’s history and development.
