The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has mourned former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, recalling their joint advocacy for the construction of the Second Niger Bridge.
Obi described the late former governor as his “very dear elder brother,” saying Uduaghan treated him like a younger sibling during their interactions in public service.
In a condolence message posted on his official X handle on Tuesday, October 20, Obi said he was deeply saddened by Uduaghan’s death and recalled their cordial working relationship.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my very dear elder brother, His Excellency, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State. In my interactions with him, he treated me like his junior brother,” Obi wrote.
The former Anambra State governor said they worked together to promote and advocate for the award of the contract for the Second Niger Bridge, which he described as important to national integration, commerce and development in the South-East and South-South.
He said he was pleased that their efforts eventually succeeded and the bridge became a reality.
“We worked together as brothers in the collective effort to promote and advocate for the award of the contract for the Second Niger Bridge, recognising its importance to national integration, commerce, and the development of the South-East and South-South,” Obi said.
“I am pleased that the effort ultimately succeeded and that the Second Niger Bridge became a reality, serving as a symbol of the importance of collaboration in the pursuit of national development,” he added.
Obi said Uduaghan’s death was a loss to his family, Delta State and Nigeria, while extending his condolences to the former governor’s relatives and the state government.
“His passing is a loss to his family, the people of Delta State, and our nation. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the government, and the people of Delta State,” he said.
“May God grant him eternal rest and comfort all who mourn him,” Obi added.
The Uduaghan family had earlier announced his death in a statement signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan on Monday, saying the former governor died on the morning of October 19, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 71.
