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S’South govs, PDP mourn Bayelsa deputy gov’s death
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South-South Governors’ Forum, PDP Mourn Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
The South-South Governors’ Forum and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly slumped and later died on Thursday in Yenagoa.
Ewhrudjakpo was said to have collapsed around 1:30 p.m. while in his office at the Government House, Yenagoa. He was rushed to the Intensive Care Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, where he was later confirmed dead. Initial reports had described his condition as critical after he was taken to a hospital outside the state.
Earlier, his media aide, Doubara Atasi, confirmed that the deputy governor had collapsed but insisted he was in critical care. Conflicting information throughout the day left Yenagoa in uncertainty until his passing was officially announced.
South-South Governors’ Forum Reacts
Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, said he received the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death with “shock,” describing the incident as “painful and devastating.”
He stated:
“The incident came as a profound shock to all of us, but we submit to the will of the Almighty God, who has chosen to call him home at this time.”
Abiodun praised the late deputy governor for his dedication, noting that he “apparently defied illness” to continue serving the people of Bayelsa State.
He extended condolences to Governor Douye Diri, the Ewhrudjakpo family, and the entire people of Bayelsa, describing the late deputy governor as a “gem” whose life made a meaningful impact on humanity.
PDP Describes Him as a Leader of Integrity
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said Ewhrudjakpo’s passing had thrown the National Working Committee and the entire party into “profound grief.”
Ememobong described him as an “honest and consistent politician” who embodied integrity, conviction, and strong moral principles throughout his public service career.
The party said:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of this hero of political integrity, and we pray that God grants his soul eternal rest.”
Confusion and Mixed Reports in Yenagoa
Before the official announcement of his death, conflicting reports had spread across Yenagoa. Some sources insisted he had already passed and that his body had been taken to the FMC Outreach Centre in Otuoke, while the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Ben Akpedi, said he was still alive but in serious condition.
A source from Sagbama LGA, however, claimed a hospital worker confirmed the deputy governor’s death. A student living near the FMC Outreach Centre reported seeing a convoy of 17 vehicles, including an unmarked ambulance, arrive at the facility Thursday evening.
The atmosphere across Yenagoa became tense. At the Swali Ultra Modern Market, traders prayed for Ewhrudjakpo’s recovery, with many expressing disbelief and sorrow. A meat seller from his hometown of Ofoni said such a tragedy “should not happen.”
A retired Radio Bayelsa presenter, Mr Nelson Oweifawari, expressed hope that the rumours were false, saying: “The mood in the town and everywhere in the state is sad.”
A Profound Loss for Bayelsa and Nigeria
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, widely regarded as a disciplined and principled political figure, leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication. His passing has thrown the state into mourning, marking a significant loss to the Bayelsa government, the PDP family, and the nation at large.
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