The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, on Wednesday cut short plenary proceedings to lead members on a condolence visit to the Warri residence of former Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, who died at 71.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, the Speaker, accompanied by his wife, principal officers and members, stormed the Warri home of the ex-Governor, where in dual capacity he signed the condolence register opened in honour of the late septenarian and conveyed the condolences of state legislatures across the federation.
The delegation was received by the widow of the fallen patriot, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, her children, Orode and Toju, close relatives, associates and community representatives.
Speaking on behalf of the Conference of Speakers and the Delta State House of Assembly, Guwor said the news of Dr. Uduaghan’s passing was received with deep shock, noting that Nigeria has lost a passionate leader and elder statesman whose wealth of experience will be missed.
“On behalf of my colleagues, Speakers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly and the Delta State House of Assembly, we condole with the family of our departed former Governor. His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan was a passionate leader whose vision and policies contributed to the development of Delta State and positively impacted many lives,” Guwor said.
The Speaker noted that Dr. Uduaghan’s place in Delta’s political history is secure, having served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007, and Governor from 2007 to 2015, leaving legacy projects in several sectors of the state’s human and fiscal development.
Guwor explained that Wednesday’s plenary was cut short to enable the House collectively pay respects to the late former Governor and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.
He condoled with the family, assured them of support at this trying moment and prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed leader and souls of other faithful departed.
The Speaker also prayed to God to grant the family and the state the fortitude to bear the burden of the loss.
Responding on behalf of the family, the daughter, Orode Uduaghan thanked the Speaker for leading the delegation to Warri, describing the visit as a great source of comfort.
