Bayelsa State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of its Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly collapsed and died earlier today. His passing has sent shockwaves across the state and the national political space, triggering an outpouring of grief from leaders, supporters, and institutions.
According to early reports, the Deputy Governor collapsed without warning, and although efforts were made to revive him, he unfortunately did not survive. His death comes as an unexpected and painful blow to the administration of Governor Douye Diri and to the broader political landscape of the Niger Delta.
In an official statement issued shortly after the news broke, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described the development as an “inexplicable loss and indescribable pain.” Signed by National Publicity Secretary Comrade Ini Ememobong, the statement noted that the National Working Committee, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, had received the news with profound shock and sorrow.
The PDP praised Senator Ewhrudjakpo as an honest, principled, and consistent politician who practiced politics not for convenience but for conviction. The party highlighted his dedication to integrity, discipline, and strength of character—qualities that shaped his approach to governance throughout his political career. According to the party, he embodied a rare brand of leadership anchored on values rather than personal gain, and he held firmly to these virtues until his final moments.
Across Bayelsa State, the news has been met with disbelief. Residents, political allies, civil servants, and community leaders have expressed their sorrow, describing the Deputy Governor as a bridge-builder and a stabilizing force in government. His calm presence, administrative competence, and loyalty to the state’s developmental agenda made him a central figure in the Diri administration. Many regarded him as a unifying leader who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure cohesion within the executive arm of government.
His close partnership with Governor Diri was frequently cited as one of the reasons for the stability of the current administration. Together, both men maintained a collaborative leadership style that prioritized policy continuity, state development, and peaceful governance. His sudden death is expected to create a significant vacuum in the state’s leadership structure and within the PDP at large.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the country. Political associates, youth groups, traditional rulers, and development advocates have issued statements praising him as a man of humility, intellect, and unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta’s progress. Many described him as a disciplined public servant who carried himself with quiet strength and a deep sense of responsibility.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s political journey reflected dedication and loyalty. Before his elevation to the office of Deputy Governor, he served as a senator representing Bayelsa West, where he championed issues of infrastructure development, environmental protection, and equitable federal resource allocation. His consistency in public service earned him respect across party lines. In 2019, he became running mate to Governor Diri, helping to guide an administration that emphasized peace, stability, and inclusive governance.
His death marks a difficult chapter for Bayelsa State, which now enters a period of official mourning. State institutions are expected to issue formal condolence messages, while flags may be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect. Political watchers anticipate that prominent national leaders—governors, lawmakers, and federal officials—will also respond as the country absorbs the impact of the news.
In its message, the PDP extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Bayelsa State, describing the passing as an irreparable loss. The party prayed for God to grant the late Deputy Governor eternal rest and to comfort his family, associates, and the larger Bayelsa community mourning this tragedy.
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo leaves behind a legacy defined by conviction, integrity, and service. His death has reshaped the emotional and political atmosphere of Bayelsa State, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who valued his steady leadership and principled politics.
