ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Commissioner for Special Duties (Government House), Dr Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, has paid an emotional tribute to former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as a mentor and compassionate leader whose influence remains significant to those who served under his administration.
Osuoza, who signed the tribute, reflected on his relationship with the late governor as Uduaghan’s 72nd birthday was marked on Thursday, October 22, just three days after his death on October 19, 2026.
In the tribute titled “72nd Posthumous Birthday Tribute to Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON,” the commissioner recalled the former governor not only as a distinguished statesman and medical doctor but also as a boss and mentor whose humanity extended beyond the corridors of power.
Drawing from his experience working under Uduaghan’s administration, Osuoza said he was privileged to have served under a leader whose personal qualities and approach to leadership left lasting impressions on his associates.
He expressed sadness that the birthday celebration had come without the celebrant, noting that the former governor’s absence had not diminished the memories and legacy he left behind.
“Your voice may be silent, but your footprints remain indelible on the sands of time,” Osuoza wrote in honour of his former principal.
The commissioner’s message focused on the personal bond he shared with Uduaghan and the enduring significance of the former governor’s years in public service.
He described the late statesman as a leader whose life had made its mark, offering birthday wishes in remembrance and praying for his peaceful rest.
Osuoza concluded the tribute with a farewell to the former governor, whom he addressed by his traditional title, the Asamaigor of Warri Kingdom.
“Happy posthumous 72nd birthday, Your Excellency! Rest gloriously, my former boss. You came, you served, and you made your mark!” he wrote.
Uduaghan, who governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, died at the age of 71, three days before his 72nd birthday. His passing has drawn tributes from political leaders, public officials and associates reflecting on his years of service and the relationships he built during his public life.
For Osuoza, the birthday tribute was both a remembrance of a former governor and a personal expression of gratitude to a leader under whom he had the opportunity to serve.
