ASABA/Nigeria: Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor O. Ochei, has paid tribute to former Governor Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, reflecting on their working relationship and the late governor’s approach to governance during his eight-year administration.
Ochei, who served as Speaker during Uduaghan’s tenure, said their time working together was shaped by a shared commitment to democratic governance, institutional development and the advancement of Delta State.
In his tribute, the former Speaker described Uduaghan as a measured and purposeful leader whose administration pursued economic diversification, improved healthcare access and investments in education and infrastructure.
He particularly highlighted the Delta Beyond Oil initiative, which sought to reduce the state’s dependence on crude oil revenue by encouraging investment in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, entertainment and small businesses.
Ochei also recalled the administration’s efforts in peace and security, healthcare delivery, education and infrastructure, including the establishment of Asaba International Airport, the development of model schools and the introduction of healthcare programmes for pregnant women and children under five.
According to him, these initiatives formed part of the former governor’s contribution to the state’s development and remain relevant to discussions about public policy and sustainable growth.
Beyond policy decisions, Ochei said he remembered Uduaghan for his emphasis on dialogue, consensus-building and cooperation among institutions, qualities he considered important to effective democratic governance.
Uduaghan governed Delta State from 2007 to 2015, having previously served as Commissioner for Health and Secretary to the State Government. His administration operated during a period when the state faced questions around economic diversification, infrastructure development and security in the Niger Delta.
Ochei extended his condolences to Uduaghan’s wife, children, the wider family, the Itsekiri Nation and the people of Delta State, describing the death as a painful loss to the state and the country.
He prayed that God would grant the former governor eternal rest and comfort those mourning him.
Ochei currently serves as President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation and is the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Delta North Senatorial District.
