Bayelsa State’s weekly prosperity walk on Thursday morning drew an unprecedented turnout as residents and government officials came together to honor the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Governor Douye Diri, speaking during the 177th State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, encouraged all citizens to participate in the five-kilometre walk as a tribute to Ewhrudjakpo, who had been a strong supporter of the program from its inception.
Government functionaries, including the Controller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service—who attended as a special guest—joined the walk. Also present were the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, legislators, the Secretary to the State Government Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, Head of Service Dr. Ebiye Sawyer, commissioners, appointees, and numerous civil servants.
The walk concluded at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa.
Addressing the crowd, many of whom wore black T-shirts featuring Ewhrudjakpo’s picture and “Lawrence @ 60” on the back, Governor Diri described the deputy governor’s passing as deeply painful.
He emphasised that the measure of a life is not its length, but the impact one leaves behind.
“Ewhrudjakpo’s sudden departure is very painful and difficult for all of us. He supported every initiative we introduced and was always committed to serving the people,” Diri said.
“Today, seeing this turnout confirms the positive mark he left on Bayelsa State.”
He further urged citizens to continue embracing the Prosperity Walk, noting its benefits for health and community engagement.
Other notable attendees included the Leader of the House of Assembly, Monday Obolo-Bubou; Chief of Staff, Dr. Peter Akpe; his deputy Irorodamie Komonibo, and several traditional and community leaders.
The gathering reflected the late deputy governor’s enduring legacy of service, dedication, and community impact.
