Bayelsa State has entered a period of mourning after the sudden death of Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who died on Thursday at 60. His passing shocked residents, government officials and political leaders across the state.
Deputy Governor Collapsed During Official Duties
Ewhrudjakpo slumped in his office around 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday while walking to a scheduled meeting. Staff members called for help immediately, and emergency responders moved him to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa.
Eyewitnesses said he appeared unresponsive when he arrived at the hospital. Doctors placed him in the Intensive Care Unit, but he later died. Sources suggested a possible cardiac emergency, although the government has not confirmed the cause.
Security teams later sealed off parts of the hospital as sympathisers gathered to verify the news.
Government Confirms Death and Pays Tribute
Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, confirmed the loss. She noted that the Deputy Governor worked earlier that day and showed no signs of distress.
She praised his long record of service as Commissioner for Works, Senator for Bayelsa West and Deputy Governor since 2020.
Governor Douye Diri also expressed deep sorrow. He sent condolences to Ewhrudjakpo’s wife, Beatrice, their children and the entire Ewhrudjakpo family. He also extended sympathy to the Ofoni Federated Community and former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson.
Bayelsa Enters Three-Day State Mourning
Governor Diri declared three days of State Mourning starting Friday, December 12, 2025. He ordered all flags to fly at half-mast and urged residents to honour the Deputy Governor’s legacy of public service. The governor also prayed for strength for the family and comfort for the state.
Dickson Describes Ewhrudjakpo as Loyal and Irreplaceable
Former Governor and Senator Henry Seriake Dickson described December 11 as one of the saddest days of his life. He called Ewhrudjakpo a loyal mentee and a principled leader who stood firm during difficult periods.
Dickson reflected on their long history, which began in the 1990s when he mentored Ewhrudjakpo as a young union activist. He said the late Deputy Governor served with honesty, intellect and deep commitment.
He added that funeral plans will be announced after consultations with the family and the government.
Read also: PDP Confirms Death of Bayelsa Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo
