Former senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi, has died at the age of 68, drawing an end to a long and often controversial political career that shaped party politics in Delta State for decades.
Born 1958 in Delta State, Nigeria, Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi is a Nigerian politician who served as the senator representing Delta North senatorial district in the Nigerian Senate from 2015 to 2023 where he chaired the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, a position that placed him at the centre of legislative oversight on development issues in the oil-producing region.
Before his election to the Senate, he was Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State and played a key role in consolidating the party’s influence at the state level.
In 2021, he defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that stirred political debate and altered alignments within Delta politics. His time in public office attracted national attention not only for his legislative work but also for a prolonged legal battle that followed money laundering charges.
In 2022, the Court of Appeal convicted him, a decision that marked a dramatic moment in his career. The case, however, took a different turn in 2023 when the Supreme Court overturned the conviction, clearing Nwaoboshi and the companies linked to the charges.
Until his death, Nwaoboshi remained a strong and influential figure in Delta State politics, regarded by supporters as a seasoned political strategist and by critics as a symbol of the intense legal and ethical debates that have defined Nigeria’s political space. His passing closes a chapter on a public life marked by power, controversy, and lasting political impact.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, describing his death as a great loss to Delta State, the Anioma nation and Nigeria at large.
Governor Oborevwori in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said Senator Nwaoboshi was a proud son of Delta State and a courageous defender of the Anioma cause whose contributions to nation-building would remain indelible.
The Governor recalled the late senator’s impactful service at the National Assembly, where he chaired the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, noting that his voice and advocacy for the development of the Niger Delta and Delta State stood him out as a committed and passionate leader.
He said Senator Nwaoboshi’s political journey and rise to prominence were anchored on a rich political pedigree, selfless service and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy, which also saw him serve meritoriously as a two-time Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.
According to the governor, the late lawmaker devoted his life to the service of his people, the party and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty and dedication to public service.