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Former Delta State Deputy Governor, Benjamin Elue, Dies at 85

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Former Delta State Deputy Governor, Benjamin Elue, Dies at 85



Emeka Esogbue


​Chief Benjamin Sunday Elue, the former Deputy Governor of Delta State and a prominent figure in Nigeria's transition to civil rule, has passed away. He was 85. According to family sources, the elder statesman died in the early hours of Saturday, February 28, 2026, following a brief illness.


​​Chief Elue is best remembered for his tenure as the Deputy Governor of Delta State from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007. Serving two terms alongside former Governor James Onanefe Ibori, Elue played a foundational role in the state's administration during the country’s return to democracy after years of military rule.

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​Born on June 6, 1940, in the Anioma community of Obior, Aniocha North LGA, Elue’s career spanned several decades and sectors. He began his professional journey as a dedicated teacher in both primary and secondary schools. He later transitioned into management consulting and private business ventures.

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A stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he remained a loyal party leader and a respected elder statesman long after his constitutional terms ended in 2007.​Throughout his political career, Elue was frequently cited by colleagues and successors for his "uncommon humility" and unwavering loyalty. Delta State leaders have already begun issuing tributes, praising his dedication to public service and his role as a stabilizing force in the state’s political landscape.


A particular tribute, described him as a symbol of dedication whose transition marks the end of an era for the early architects of the modern Delta State. He is survived by his family and the wider Anioma community, where he remained a deeply influential figure until his passing

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