The Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. (Comr.) Friday Ovoke Warri, has expressed his deepest condolences to the family of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, following his death.
Uduaghan, who died on Monday morning, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71, served as Governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015. During his tenure, the Umeh Road project became a significant issue in community development advocacy.
Warri paid tribute to the late former governor during the Councillors’ Mega Ward Empowerment Programme in Erowa/Umeh Ward, where he led a minute of silence in honour of the deceased and reflected on his contributions to the development of the area.
The council chairman recalled Uduaghan’s role in the advocacy that led to the construction of the famous Umeh Road through the Umeh Needs Road (UNR) initiative, describing the project as an important intervention in addressing the community’s longstanding road infrastructure needs.
Warri said the late former governor’s involvement in the road project remained a significant part of the community’s development history, particularly in improving access and drawing attention to the infrastructural challenges confronting the area.
He extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Uduaghan family, praying that God would grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss. He also urged the people of Delta State, particularly residents of Isoko South, to remember the late former governor for his contributions to the state during his years in public service.
Addressing beneficiaries of the empowerment programme in Umeh/Erowa Ward, Warri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots development, economic empowerment and sustained support for residents across the local government area.
He explained that the ₦50,000 cash grant being provided to 200 beneficiaries in the ward was part of the first phase of the programme, designed to support small businesses, strengthen livelihoods and stimulate economic activities at the grassroots.
According to the chairman, the initiative reflects his administration’s determination to ensure that residents across the 20 wards of Isoko South have access to opportunities that can improve their economic well-being.
Warri encouraged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the financial support, particularly by investing in their businesses and other productive ventures that could provide sustainable income and improve the welfare of their families.
The Councillors’ Mega Ward Empowerment Programme was flagged off earlier in the week at the Oleh Civic Centre before moving to Irri. Subsequent engagements are scheduled to take place in Igbide, Olomoro, Emede and other wards until all 20 wards in Isoko South Local Government Area have been covered.
The programme forms part of the council’s efforts to extend financial assistance and economic opportunities to residents, while strengthening grassroots participation in its development initiatives.
