President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, highlighting his contributions to governance and public service both during and after his eight-year administration.
Uduaghan, who died at 71, governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015.
In a condolence message issued on Monday, Tinubu noted that the former governor remained active in the state’s political and socio-economic affairs after completing his two terms in office.
“After his tenure as governor, Dr Uduaghan continued to feature prominently in Delta State’s political and socio-economic landscape, contributing to the sustenance of democratic governance and the advancement of public service in Nigeria,” the President said.
The President also acknowledged Uduaghan’s earlier years in public service, during which he served as Delta State commissioner for health and secretary to the state government before winning the governorship election in 2007.
Dr Uduaghan was a public servant whose leadership was devoted to Delta State’s development and service to our nation,” the President said.
Tinubu further reflected on the former governor’s eight years in office, noting his efforts to advance the state’s development, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare and the welfare of residents.
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During this period, he pursued developmental strides to improve infrastructure, healthcare delivery, and the overall welfare of Deltans,” he said.
The President urged Deltans to take solace in Uduaghan’s years of service and the lasting relationships he established across Nigeria’s political and social circles.
“At this difficult time, I urge the people of Delta State to draw strength from the late governor’s years of service and the enduring relationships he built across the political and social terrain of our country,” Tinubu said.
He also expressed sympathy to the deceased’s wife, Roli, his children, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, who was identified as Uduaghan’s cousin, as well as his friends and political associates.
“On behalf of my family, the Government, and the people of Nigeria, I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Roli; his children; his cousin, former Governor James Ibori; and friends and political associates whose lives he impacted,” the President said.
Tinubu concluded his message with a prayer for the late governor and those grieving his death.
“May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn him.”