By PAULINA NZERUBE

‘Talk Na Do Governor’: Asaba Monarch Pays Tribute to Uduaghan’s Leadership & Service

THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, has paid tribute to former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as a dedicated public servant whose administration left notable marks on Asaba and other parts of the state.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Asagba-in-Council, traditional chiefs and the people of Asaba, the monarch expressed shock and sadness over Uduaghan’s death.

He also commiserated with the former governor’s family in Warri North, the Delta State Government and residents across the state.

Azinge said Uduaghan’s record as a medical doctor, politician, statesman and peace-builder would remain part of Delta State’s political and developmental history.

The Meaning Behind ‘Talk Na Do’

The Asagba recalled that Uduaghan was widely associated with the description “Talk Na Do Governor”, a phrase reflecting his emphasis on action and project delivery.

His administration’s three-point agenda focused on peace and security, human capital development, and infrastructure. According to Azinge, these priorities influenced development across Delta State, with Asaba benefiting from several major projects.

The monarch’s tribute placed particular emphasis on the state capital, where infrastructure expansion helped reshape transport links and public facilities during Uduaghan’s 2007–2015 tenure.

However, the significance of such projects extends beyond their physical presence. Airports, roads, healthcare facilities and schools can support economic activity and public services when governments maintain them effectively and ensure that residents can access their benefits.

Projects That Changed Asaba’s Landscape

Among the achievements identified by the Asagba was the conceptualisation and construction of the Asaba International Airport.

He also recalled the construction of Asaba’s first flyover around the Inter-Bau roundabout, which was intended to ease traffic movement and improve the appearance of the capital.

In addition, the former governor’s administration undertook internal road development and advanced the Ughelli–Asaba road dualisation project.

The monarch also cited the initiation of the new Government House and Asaba Specialist Hospital, alongside the construction of the Dome Event Centre.

Another project highlighted was the Stephen Keshi Stadium, previously known as Asaba Township Stadium, which the Asagba said was developed to international standards.

These projects represented different aspects of the administration’s infrastructure programme, ranging from transportation and public administration to healthcare, events and sports.

Education & Healthcare as Development Priorities

Azinge’s tribute also drew attention to Uduaghan’s interventions in education and healthcare, areas that directly affect household welfare and long-term development.

The former governor, who trained as a medical doctor, pioneered a free healthcare programme for pregnant women and children under five. The initiative was intended to reduce financial barriers to essential medical care for vulnerable residents.

Beyond healthcare, Uduaghan invested in human capital development, including overseas scholarship opportunities for first-class graduates.

The Asagba also recalled improvements to secondary schools across the state. In Asaba, the schools he mentioned included Saint Patrick’s College, Niger Mixed Secondary School and Asagba Mixed Secondary School.

Together, these initiatives reflected the administration’s stated focus on improving public services and developing the skills and capabilities of Delta residents.

Peacebuilding & Relations With Traditional Rulers

The monarch described Uduaghan as a friend of traditional institutions who maintained cordial relationships with monarchs across Delta State.

According to Azinge, the former governor promoted peace, unity and inclusiveness. Such relationships can be important in a state with diverse communities and competing local interests, particularly where traditional institutions contribute to mediation and community engagement.

The tribute therefore presented Uduaghan’s legacy as extending beyond construction projects to include his relationships with community leaders and the traditional institution.

Nevertheless, the wider assessment of any administration’s peacebuilding record must also consider the experiences of communities, the handling of disputes and the durability of the outcomes achieved.

‘Delta Beyond Oil’ & the Question of Economic Diversification

Azinge also praised Uduaghan’s “Delta Beyond Oil” vision, describing it as evidence of foresight about the state’s long-term prosperity.

The vision reflected the importance of looking beyond crude oil as a principal source of public revenue and considering other economic opportunities.

For Delta State, economic diversification remains a significant policy question. Sustainable development depends not only on oil revenue but also on the growth of productive sectors, employment opportunities, skills development and infrastructure that supports businesses.

The Asagba’s reference to the vision underscored the place of economic planning in his assessment of the former governor’s legacy.

A Final Tribute to a Former Governor

As he concluded his message, Azinge prayed that God would grant Uduaghan eternal rest and provide comfort to his wife, Mrs. Roli Uduaghan, his children and the wider family.

He described the loss as irreplaceable and expressed solidarity with those grieving the former governor.

The tribute adds the voice of Asaba’s traditional institution to the expressions of condolence following Uduaghan’s death. It also offers a perspective on the projects, public-service initiatives and relationships that the monarch believes deserve recognition.

Ultimately, Uduaghan’s place in Delta State’s history will be shaped by both the achievements recalled by his supporters and the broader evidence of how his policies affected residents. The Asagba’s message, however, makes clear that his administration’s infrastructure, healthcare, education and peacebuilding initiatives remain central to the legacy remembered by the traditional ruler and the people he represents.