The councillor representing Evwreni Ward 8 in the Legislative Arm of Ughelli North local government council of Delta State, Hon. Obukoadata Aghoghofia, has died after collapsing during a football competition in Evwreni community.

This marks the third death of a serving councillor in Delta State within the past nine months, with two from Ughelli North and one from Emede Ward 5 in Isoko South local government area.

Ughelli North local government council chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, expressed his grief on social media, noting that he had met with the deceased just three hours before the tragic incident.

"I am not one given to emotional fits, but your sudden departure just three hours after we sat in my office, shared laughter and joked together, is a tragedy too painful to bear," Egbo wrote.

He described Hon. Aghoghofia as "an accomplished legislator whose unwavering dedication to public service and commitment to the development of his ward left an indelible mark on the current 8th Assembly."

Recent Pattern of Councillor Deaths

This incident follows the death of Hon. Agent Friday Ohwoevworuemu, who represented Uwheru Ward 16, just two months ago on April 23, 2025, after a brief illness.

"He served with distinction, and until his death, he was actively involved in legislative duties. His sudden departure is a heavy blow to us all," the council chairman stated in his tribute.

On behalf of the government and residents of Ughelli North local government area, Egbo mourned "the loss of a brother, a friend, and an exceptional politician," adding that Aghoghofia's absence "will be deeply felt."

The circumstances surrounding the councillor's collapse during the football match have not been detailed, and no information about funeral arrangements has been released at this time.