Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has mourned the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as a political father, mentor and benefactor whose influence shaped his public service career.
Uduaghan, according to a family statement signed by Toju Anire Uduaghan on behalf of the family, died on Monday morning, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71.
In a condolence message, Joel-Onowakpo said the former governor’s death was a painful personal loss, as well as a significant loss to Delta State and Nigeria.
He recalled that Uduaghan played a pivotal role in his emergence and growth in public service, beginning with his appointment as Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area after the 2007 elections.
According to the senator, the former governor subsequently appointed him in 2009 as the first Executive Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, entrusting him with a critical responsibility at a time when the state was seeking to diversify its economy.
Joel-Onowakpo said the appointments reflected Uduaghan’s confidence in his abilities and commitment to nurturing emerging leaders.
“I do not call him my political father for nothing. My entire journey in public service was charted by his kindness, trust and visionary leadership,” he said.
The senator noted that Uduaghan’s impact on governance extended beyond appointments and political leadership, stressing that the former governor invested in people and created opportunities for them to contribute to the development of the state.
He highlighted Uduaghan’s three-point agenda of human capital development, infrastructure development, and peace and security, which guided his administration between 2007 and 2015.
Before becoming governor, Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
Joel-Onowakpo said his former mentor continued to provide guidance and support even after leaving office, particularly when he sought advice on contesting for a seat in the National Assembly.
He described the late governor as a leader who took a personal interest in the growth and development of those he mentored, adding that his legacy would endure through the many people whose lives he influenced.
Recalling his tribute to Uduaghan on his 70th birthday, the senator said his assertion that the former governor’s leadership had produced dedicated individuals contributing to nation-building remained valid.
“To lose such a father at this time is painful beyond words. Deltans have lost a detribalised leader, Isoko nation has lost a true friend, and I have lost the very man who considered my growth as his personal responsibility,” he said.
The lawmaker extended his condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, his children, the Uduaghan family of Abigborodo, the people of Warri North, and the entire Delta State.
He also conveyed his sympathies on behalf of his family, the people of Delta South Senatorial District and others whose lives were touched by the former governor’s generosity.
Joel-Onowakpo prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family, political associates and the people of Delta State the strength to bear the loss.
“Adieu, Asamaigor! Adieu, father!!” he declared.
