A former Nigerian Ambassador to Thailand, Oma Djebah, has mourned the death of former Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, describing his passing as a major loss to the state and the country.
Uduaghan died on Monday at the age of 71, according to a statement by his family. He would have turned 72 on October 22.
Djebah, a former two-time Delta State Commissioner for Information, said the late governor made significant contributions to peace and security in the Niger Delta, as well as human capital and infrastructure development.
He described Uduaghan as a visionary statesman and a leader whose commitment to public service and peaceful coexistence would remain memorable.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened over the sad demise of this great leader, a patriot, and a very compassionate administrator who gave his all in his service to Delta State and Nigeria.
“His death has created a void that would be very difficult to fill. I’m still short of words to convey my feelings over this sad loss,” Djebah said.
The former envoy said Uduaghan played an important role in efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the Niger Delta during periods of unrest in the region.
“He was resilient, forthright, educated and very visionary. He was a great boss, friend, leader and astute administrator. His politics was highly refined. He led from the front, and with his heart,” he added.
Uduaghan, a trained medical doctor, began his public service career as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 before serving as Secretary to the State Government between 2003 and 2007.
He was elected governor in 2007 and re-elected in 2011, serving until 2015.
His administration prioritised healthcare, infrastructure, peace and security, and human capital development. He also pursued the “Delta Beyond Oil” initiative, which sought to reduce the state’s dependence on oil revenue by promoting other sectors of the economy.
Djebah said the late governor’s contributions to the state and the country extended beyond governance, describing him as a compassionate and detribalised leader.
Offering his condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Delta State, the former ambassador prayed for strength for those affected by the loss.
“I’m still short of words to convey my deep condolences. He was a leader with a unique sense of compassion, and a highly detribalised statesman.
“My condolences and prayers to his family, Delta State, and Nigeria. May God Almighty grant unto him, eternal rest. And may the family, all loved ones have the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.