Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has visited the family of former Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, to offer his condolences after the former governor died on Monday at age 71.
Oborevwori, accompanied by his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and top government officials, described the late Uduaghan as a great leader whose contributions to Delta State’s development would remain indelible.
The governor had earlier joined family members and other dignitaries, including Uduaghan’s daughter, Orode, and former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, to receive the former governor’s remains at Osubi Airport.
Speaking during the condolence visit to Uduaghan’s widow, Mrs Roli Uduaghan and family members, Oborevwori said the outpouring of grief and the large number of people who gathered to mourn the former governor reflected the impact he had made on many lives.
He recalled his relationship with the deceased, describing him as his former boss and a man who played a significant role in his political journey.
“He was my boss. He gave me the highest political appointment, Special Adviser, in 2007. That is something that really touches my heart. You are all aware that he supported me throughout this journey,” the governor said.
Oborevwori described Uduaghan as a calm, articulate and thoughtful leader who made significant contributions to the development of the state.
According to him, the number of people who turned out to receive the late governor’s remains and those who visited his family was evidence of the lives he had touched through public service and political appointments.
The governor particularly commended Uduaghan for building the Asaba International Airport, noting that the Airport has become one of the deceased former Governor’s legacies and an enduring asset to the state.
He said Uduaghan’s decision to build development projects beyond narrow ethnic considerations demonstrated his commitment to the overall progress of Delta State.
Oborevwori said his administration would continue to recognise and preserve worthy projects inherited from previous administrations.
He cited the ongoing modification of the Effurun Roundabout Flyover as an example of the need to sustain existing infrastructure while making improvements where necessary.
“He has gone, but he can never be forgotten by Deltans,” Oborevwori said.
Earlier, the governor had signed the condolence register, expressing sadness over former Governor Uduaghan’s death and commiserating with the bereaved family and people of Delta State.
In his tribute, Oborevwori wrote: “I am saddened by the demise of the former Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan. He was a great boss. I commiserate with his beloved wife, children, family members and Deltans over this great loss.
“May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss. Your impact in Delta can never be forgotten. Asamaigor, RIP.”
The governor’s visit came amidst widespread expressions of grief over the death of Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015.
