Governor Seyi Makinde issues a heartfelt condolence message mourning Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, praising his loyalty, courage, and service to democracy.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has joined the long list of national figures mourning the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
In a deeply emotional statement issued from Ibadan, the governor described the incident as a devastating blow not only to Bayelsa State but also to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Nigeria’s democratic community at large.
His condolence message highlighted the unique attributes of the late Ewhrudjakpo, portraying him as a rare public servant whose loyalty to democratic ideals never wavered throughout his years in service.
According to Governor Makinde, the news of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death reached him on Thursday and came as a shock to his administration.
He noted that although death is inevitable, the sudden exit of individuals who continue to play vital roles in governance and national cohesion leaves deep emotional and institutional gaps.
Makinde explained that the late deputy governor represented a generation of political actors who believed strongly in responsible governance, teamwork, and constructive political engagement, and whose contributions could not easily be replaced.
In the condolence message, the governor emphasised that Senator Ewhrudjakpo stood out within the PDP as one of the party’s most dependable figures.
He recalled that, over the years, the deceased earned a reputation for courage, honesty, and firm commitment to decisions made in the interest of the nation, the party, and the communities he served.
Makinde added that the late deputy governor was one of the shining examples of the type of leadership Nigeria needed—leadership that prioritised national unity over personal ambition and patriotic duty over political convenience.
Governor Makinde took time to sympathise with the deceased’s immediate family, who he said must at this period be going through unimaginable emotional pain.
He noted that whenever a family loses a husband, father, or brother, the grief goes beyond public acknowledgment. It affects the core of family life and disrupts the familiar rhythm of daily existence.
He prayed that God would comfort them and grant them the strength to endure the difficult days ahead.
In the same vein, he extended his heartfelt sympathy to the Bayelsa State Government, stressing that the loss of a deputy governor inevitably places extra pressure on governance, continuity, and stability.
Makinde further described Senator Ewhrudjakpo as a man who approached leadership with clarity of purpose and humility.
He noted that even during politically turbulent periods, the late deputy governor remained calm, thoughtful, and strategic in his interventions.
The governor said it was no surprise that many Nigerians viewed him as a courageous democrat, someone who believed in democratic institutions and was always ready to defend them.
His career, according to Makinde, reflected a consistent pattern of public service, delivering value to constituencies and demonstrating loyalty to causes bigger than personal interest.
While delivering his condolence message, Governor Makinde reflected on how the late senator’s political trajectory showed a remarkable balance between administrative competence and human compassion.
He explained that Ewhrudjakpo’s approach to governance was rooted in the belief that public service must positively impact ordinary people.
Whether in legislative roles or executive responsibilities, the deceased always showed sensitivity to the problems faced by citizens, particularly the vulnerable, and worked tirelessly to address them.
Makinde stated that these were among the qualities that made him a respected figure not only in Bayelsa State but across Nigeria.
In addition to mourning the deceased, the governor used the moment to remind political leaders and citizens of the fleeting nature of life.
He stressed that life remains unpredictable, and it is therefore important for everyone holding public office to serve with integrity, empathy, and dedication.
According to him, Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death, though painful, should encourage reflection on how leaders can build institutions that outlive individuals and create legacies that contribute to national development even long after they are gone.
Makinde concluded his statement by praying that God would grant eternal rest to the soul of the late deputy governor.
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