The Bayelsa State government has officially confirmed the passing of its Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
The 60-year-old deputy governor, who had been actively engaged in official duties earlier that day, collapsed while heading to a scheduled meeting in his office. He was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, where medical personnel sadly pronounced him dead.
The news broke initially through a statement from the National Leadership of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), as the state government held off on an immediate confirmation. It wasn't until Friday afternoon that Hon. (Mrs.) Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the state's Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, addressed the tragedy publicly.
Describing the incident as "profoundly shocking," the commissioner conveyed the government's deep sorrow in an official release. "Government announces with deep regret and profound shock the sudden passing of the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Ph.D.," she stated. "His demise is not just painful; it is a great loss to the Government, people of Bayelsa State, and the nation."
Senator Ewhrudjakpo, a seasoned public servant, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service. He previously held roles as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure and represented the Bayelsa West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate. Since 2020, he had served as deputy to Governor Douye Diri, contributing significantly to the state's development.
In response to the loss, Governor Diri has proclaimed a three-day period of state mourning, effective immediately from Friday, December 12. All flags across Bayelsa are to be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect. The governor extended his "heartfelt condolences" to the late deputy's wife, Barr. (Mrs.) Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children, the extended Ewhrudjakpo family, the Ofoni Federated Community, former Governor Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and the entire citizenry of the state.
"His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, has declared a State Mourning for 3 working days in honour of the late Deputy Governor beginning from today," the commissioner added. The governor also offered prayers for solace, concluding, "May his gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord."
As Bayelsa grapples with this unexpected void in leadership, tributes are already pouring in, highlighting Ewhrudjakpo's commitment to public service and his role in fostering progress in the oil-rich Niger Delta state. Further details on arrangements for the late deputy's funeral will be announced in due course.
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