Dickson warns of politicising Ewhrudjakpo’s death, describes return to Bayelsa govt house as painful
Former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Senator Dickson described the death of the deputy governor as a personal and devastating loss, just as he warned against politicising the deputy governor’s death.
Dickson spoke on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the Bayelsa State Government House, Yenagoa, marking his first official return to the seat of power since he handed over to the current administration in 2020.
He was accompanied by his wife, Professor Rachael Dickson, as well as several political associates and supporters.
Addressing Governor Douye Diri, members of the state executive, and other dignitaries present, the former governor said it was particularly painful that his first visit to the Government House after leaving office was prompted by such a tragic event.
He also noted that he would have preferred to return under happier circumstances rather than to mourn the loss of a close ally and friend.
Dickson described Ewhrudjakpo’s passing as shocking and emotionally overwhelming, adding that the sudden nature of the death made it even harder to bear.
According to him, the news affected him deeply and delayed his visit, as he struggled to come to terms with the magnitude of the loss.
Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Dickson paid glowing tribute to the late deputy governor, highlighting his commitment to public service and his record of performance in various roles.
He recalled Ewhrudjakpo’s tenure as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, during which he played a key role in supervising major projects, including the construction of the current Government House complex.
The former governor described the death as unprecedented in the history of the state, noting that Ewhrudjakpo’s contributions to governance and development in Bayelsa were widely acknowledged across political divides.
He further said standing in the Government House brought back memories of the late deputy governor’s efforts and dedication to the state’s progress.
While extending his condolences to Governor Diri, the Ewhrudjakpo family, the state government, and the people of Bayelsa, Dickson called for unity and collective support during the difficult period.
He urged political leaders and citizens to set aside differences and come together to honour the memory of the deceased.
In his response, Governor Douye Diri expressed appreciation to Dickson for making the visit despite the emotional weight of the moment.
He acknowledged the close bond between his predecessor and the late deputy governor, noting that the loss was not only personal to the family but also deeply felt within the government and the wider Bayelsa community.
Diri described Ewhrudjakpo’s death as a major blow, stressing that its impact was shared by the state leadership, the people, and those who worked closely with him over the years.
He commended Dickson for summoning the courage to return to Bayelsa at such a painful time and thanked him for standing in solidarity with the government and the bereaved family.
The condolence visit underscored the widespread grief that has followed Ewhrudjakpo’s passing and highlighted his enduring legacy in Bayelsa State’s political and developmental history.
