The Bayelsa State Government has announced the sudden death of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, declaring three days of mourning and flag-lowering across the state.
Bayelsa State was thrown into deep shock and mourning following the confirmation of the sudden death of Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, a development that has sent waves of grief across the political and social landscape of the state.
The Bayelsa State Government officially announced the tragic loss on Friday, describing it as unexpected and devastating.
According to an official statement released by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the 60-year-old deputy governor collapsed on Thursday while heading to a scheduled official meeting at the Government House in Yenagoa.
He was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, where doctors made efforts to revive him before he was pronounced dead.
The government noted that Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo had been active and fully engaged in his official responsibilities earlier that day, making the incident all the more shocking to colleagues, aides, and members of the public.
The statement emphasized that the deputy governor showed no signs of distress prior to his sudden collapse.
Reacting to the heartbreaking news, Governor Douye Diri declared a three-day period of state mourning in honour of the late deputy governor.
As part of the directive, all flags across government offices, public institutions, and designated areas in Bayelsa State are to be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period.
Governor Diri described the passing of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo as a monumental loss to the Bayelsa State Government, the people of the Niger Delta, and Nigeria as a whole.
He said the deputy governor was not only a dependable partner in governance but also a man of intellect, humility, and deep commitment to public service.
In a condolence message, the governor extended his sympathies to the deceased’s wife, Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, and their children.
He also commiserated with the Ewhrudjakpo family, the Ofoni Federated Community, political associates, and the entire people of Bayelsa State.
Governor Diri prayed for God’s comfort and strength for all those affected by the painful loss.
The governor further noted that Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo played a key role in shaping policies and governance strategies that prioritized peace, development, and inclusive leadership in Bayelsa.
He added that the late deputy governor’s intellectual depth and calm disposition were invaluable assets to the administration.
Beyond Bayelsa, the news of the deputy governor’s death triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, public servants, and citizens across the country.
Many described him as a disciplined leader who believed strongly in democratic values and service to humanity.
Former Deputy Governor of Edo State and Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, was among prominent figures who publicly mourned the late deputy governor.
Shaibu expressed deep sadness over the sudden passing of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing him as a dedicated and principled public servant.
According to Shaibu, the late Bayelsa deputy governor distinguished himself through hard work, loyalty to duty, and a strong sense of responsibility in every position he occupied.
He noted that Ewhrudjakpo’s contributions to governance and political development would not be forgotten.
Political observers have also highlighted Ewhrudjakpo’s academic background and experience in public administration, which helped shape his approach to leadership.
His calm but firm style of governance earned him respect among colleagues and stakeholders within and outside Bayelsa State.
As preparations begin for official burial arrangements, the Bayelsa State Government has assured residents that details of memorial activities and funeral rites will be communicated in due course.
In the meantime, citizens have been urged to remain peaceful and to honour the late deputy governor’s legacy through unity and reflection.
The sudden death of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has left a vacuum in Bayelsa’s political leadership, marking the end of a life dedicated to service, governance, and the advancement of the state.
For many, his passing is not just a political loss but a personal one, as Bayelsa mourns a leader remembered for his commitment and integrity.
Ireport247news
