The Bayelsa State Government on Friday announced the passing of Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, confirming that the 60-year-old died after collapsing while heading to an official meeting in his office.
The news, delivered through a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, described the incident as a tragic and unexpected loss to the state.
According to the government, the deputy governor had participated in routine duties earlier in the day before he suddenly slumped.
He was immediately taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, where doctors later pronounced him dead.
Governor Douye Diri responded to the development by declaring a three-day period of state mourning beginning Friday.
He directed that all public buildings fly the national and state flags at half-mast in honour of his late deputy.
In a condolence message, the governor described Ewhrudjakpo’s death as “a painful blow to the government and people of Bayelsa” and extended sympathy to his widow, Beatrice, his children, the larger Ewhrudjakpo family, and the Ofoni Federated Community.
He also commiserated with former governor Senator Seriake Dickson and residents across the state, praying for divine comfort during what he called “a season of grief.”
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reacting earlier on Thursday night after news of his collapse spread, confirmed the tragedy through a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong.
The party said its National Working Committee was devastated by the deputy governor’s passing, describing him as a steadfast and principled political figure.
The statement praised his consistency, integrity, and strength of character, calling him a “leader guided by conviction rather than convenience.”
The PDP extended its condolences to Bayelsa citizens and prayed for the repose of his soul.
Born on September 5, 1965, Ewhrudjakpo built a career combining law, public administration, and politics.
Before assuming office as deputy governor in 2020, he represented Bayelsa West in the Senate between 2019 and 2020.
He previously served as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, steering major initiatives such as the development of the Bayelsa International Airport.
Ewhrudjakpo held several academic qualifications, including a Diploma in Community Health, a Bachelor’s degree in Secretarial Administration, an MBA, an LL.B., and a doctorate in Human Rights and Labour Law.
He returned as deputy governor in 2023 after being re-elected alongside Governor Diri.
His death comes at a politically delicate moment in Bayelsa.
In recent weeks, Ewhrudjakpo had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking protection from an alleged impeachment move by the State House of Assembly.
The threat emerged after he chose to remain in the PDP while Governor Diri defected to the APC in October.
Governor Diri had publicly stated that he would not pressure his deputy to leave his party.
