Prominent political leaders from across Nigeria on Thursday paid condolence visits to former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, at his Toru-Orua residence, ahead of the final burial rites of the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
The visits formed part of activities preceding the burial of Ewhrudjakpo, who died on December 11, 2025, and served as deputy governor from 2020 until his death under the administration of Governor Douye Diri.
His passing sparked widespread mourning within Bayelsa State and the wider Niger Delta region.
Leading one of the early delegations was the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, who arrived with other leaders of the socio-political body.
PANDEF described the late deputy governor as a committed public servant whose contributions to governance and development in Bayelsa State would not be forgotten.
Ambassador Igali said the visit was to identify with Senator Dickson and the people of Bayelsa at a moment of deep loss, noting that Ewhrudjakpo’s death was a setback not only for the state but for the entire Niger Delta.
He urged leaders in the region to sustain cooperation and unity as a way of honouring the late deputy governor’s ideals. Senator Dickson thanked the delegation, describing their presence as a demonstration of enduring regional brotherhood.
Also present was former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, who personally visited Senator Dickson to express his sympathy.
Obi had earlier sent condolences shortly after Ewhrudjakpo’s death and reaffirmed his intention to take part in the burial ceremonies.
Speaking during the visit, Obi described the late deputy governor as a disciplined and diligent leader who served Bayelsa State with integrity.
He called on public office holders to emulate Ewhrudjakpo’s sense of duty and commitment to service.
Senator Dickson expressed appreciation for Obi’s support, noting that the visit reflected compassion beyond political affiliations.
The condolence visits at Toru-Orua preceded the burial ceremony held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Ofoni, in Sagbama Local Government Area, where a funeral Mass and interment took place as the final events of a four-day funeral programme organised by the Bayelsa State Government.
Several other national figures also paid tributes to the late deputy governor, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
Delegations from youth groups, political organisations, traditional institutions and civil society were equally present.
Governor Douye Diri, who described his deputy as a dependable partner and tireless worker, led the state government delegation to the burial.
The state government declared the day work-free to enable residents to participate fully in the burial activities.
As Bayelsa State lays its deputy governor to rest, leaders and residents alike continue to reflect on his years of service, loyalty and dedication, which many say will remain a guiding example for future generations.
