Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, describing him as a great leader whose contributions to the state’s development and the lives of its people would never be forgotten.
Oborevwori made the remarks during the visit to the deceased’s widow, Mrs Roli Uduaghan, and other family members following the former governor’s death on Monday at the age of 71.
The governor was accompanied by his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and top government functionaries.
Earlier, Oborevwori had joined family members and other dignitaries, including Uduaghan’s daughter, Orode, and former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, to receive the late former governor’s remains at Osubi Airport.
During the condolence visit, Oborevwori described Uduaghan as a calm, articulate and thoughtful leader whose contributions to Delta State would remain indelible.
Reflecting on their relationship, the governor recalled how the late Uduaghan, whom he regarded as his former boss, 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 noted that the large number of people who gathered to receive Uduaghan’s remains, as well as those who visited the family to offer condolences, demonstrated the former governor’s widespread influence and the positive impact he had made on many lives.
He particularly commended Uduaghan for initiating the construction of the Asaba International Airport, describing it as one of his enduring legacies and an important asset to Delta State.
The governor also praised the late leader for pursuing development projects without allowing narrow ethnic considerations to undermine his commitment to the overall progress of the state.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving and sustaining worthwhile projects inherited from previous administrations, while making necessary improvements to existing infrastructure.
He cited the ongoing modification of the Effurun Roundabout Flyover as an example of the need to sustain established projects and enhance their value for the benefit of the people.
“He has gone, but he can never be forgotten by Deltans,” Oborevwori declared.
Earlier, the governor signed the condolence register, expressing sadness over Uduaghan’s death and extending his sympathies to the bereaved family and the 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.”
Uduaghan governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, leaving behind a record of public service and development initiatives that continue to feature prominently in tributes following his passing.
