Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo death
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo death has thrown the state into deep mourning following the sudden passing of Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, whose collapse and death in office on December 11, 2025, marked an unprecedented moment in Bayelsa’s political history.
Ewhrudjakpo died on December 11, 2025, after collapsing in his office at the Government House in Yenagoa. His death was formally announced by Governor Senator Douye Diri, who described the loss as devastating to both his administration and the people of Bayelsa. The governor immediately declared three days of state mourning, directing that flags across the state be flown at half-mast in honour of the late deputy governor.
The passing of Ewhrudjakpo marks a historic and tragic first in Bayelsa’s political history, as he becomes the first serving deputy governor of the state to die in office.
Government House Becomes Centre of Mourning
Since the announcement, Government House in Yenagoa has become the focal point of condolences, hosting a steady flow of delegations expressing sympathy to Governor Diri, the Ewhrudjakpo family, and the people of Bayelsa State.
Among the early visitors were officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Bayelsa Resident Electoral Commissioner Mallam Isah Ehimeakhe and Administrative Secretary Mrs. Eme Akpa. The INEC delegation described Ewhrudjakpo as a disciplined public servant whose contributions to governance and democratic stability would be long remembered.
The Bayelsa State Elders Council, led by former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd.), also paid tribute, praising Ewhrudjakpo’s diligence, humility, and quiet strength in supporting governance. Jonah noted that the late deputy governor played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in ensuring continuity and balance within the state administration.
https://ogelenews.ng/bayelsa-mourns-deputy-governor-lawrence-ewhrudjakpo
Bayelsa Deputy Governor Death Shakes Political and Civic Institutions
The Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo death has reverberated beyond Government House, drawing reactions from political leaders, electoral institutions, and Niger Delta stakeholders who describe the loss as both personal and institutional.
Tompolo, Niger Delta Leaders Pay Tribute
A high-profile delegation led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) further underscored the scale of the loss. The group included Hon. Julius Pondi, Presidential Amnesty Programme Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and businessman Matthew Tonlagha.
Speaking during the visit, Pondi said the Ijaw nation had lost a dependable leader whose loyalty and sense of duty remained unwavering until his final moments. Tompolo described Ewhrudjakpo as a trusted partner to Governor Diri and a public servant who placed service above personal comfort.
Governor Diri, while receiving the delegations, spoke emotionally about his working relationship with Ewhrudjakpo, noting that many of the administration’s achievements were products of their shared vision and close collaboration.
National and Regional Condolences
Condolence messages have continued to arrive from across Nigeria. Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described Ewhrudjakpo as a statesman marked by wisdom and restraint, while extending sympathies to Bayelsa State and the bereaved family.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu personally reached out to Governor Diri to express their condolences, reflecting the national significance of the loss.
In a notable gesture of respect, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), led by Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, suspended planned project inaugurations across the region. The commission said the decision was taken in solidarity with Bayelsa State during its moment of grief.
Remembering a Life of Service
Born in 1965, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo built a long career in public service. He served as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, represented Bayelsa West in the Senate, and was sworn in as Deputy Governor in February 2020.
At 60, his sudden death has left a significant void in Bayelsa’s political and administrative structure. As tributes continue to pour in, the state remains united in mourning, reflecting on the life of a leader whose commitment to service defined his public career.
As preparations for funeral arrangements continue, the Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo death remains a moment of reflection for the state, highlighting the fragility of leadership and the enduring impact of public service rendered with commitment and humility.
