Nigeria’s political leadership on Friday converged on Ofoni in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State as the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, was laid to rest amid solemn tributes and reflections on his life of service.
The burial Mass, held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, drew a distinguished audience that included President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson; former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi; and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by the Majority Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere.
In a message conveyed at the service, President Tinubu described Ewhrudjakpo’s death as a major national loss, noting that his years in public office were defined by dedication, wisdom and selfless service.
He said the late deputy governor left a lasting legacy that would stand the test of time and urged his family and the people of Bayelsa State to find comfort in the exemplary life he lived.
The President, who was absent due to an official state visit to Turkey, prayed for divine strength for all who were mourning, stressing that Ewhrudjakpo had fought a worthy fight in service to his state and country.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his tribute, said the death of the deputy governor was deeply painful and difficult to comprehend.
He reminded Christians of the biblical call to give thanks in all circumstances, even in moments of profound loss.
Jonathan described Ewhrudjakpo as a man of uncommon character, noting that it was rare for a politician who rose to such heights to enjoy universal goodwill.
He said the late deputy governor positively touched the lives of many and prayed that God would raise another leader to serve the people of Ofoni with similar dedication.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, speaking with emotion, described the passing of his deputy as a harsh reality that could not be wished away, though it remained within God’s will.
He said Ewhrudjakpo was a careful, disciplined and loyal partner in governance whose death had left a painful void in the administration and the state at large.
Diri expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Nigerians across the country who stood by Bayelsa State throughout the mourning period.
He said the late deputy governor would be remembered as a public servant whose impact would endure long after his passing.
Delivering the homily, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Bomadi, Most Rev. Hyacinth Egbebo, urged Christians not to grieve like those without hope but to fix their faith on Christ and the promise of eternal life.
He described Ewhrudjakpo as forthright, humble and generous, urging political leaders to emulate his values and commitment to service.
The burial ceremony attracted an extensive list of dignitaries, including former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim; former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Seriake Dickson; serving and former deputy governors from several states; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dame Didi Watson-Jack.
Also present were members of the National Assembly from Bayelsa State, state lawmakers, traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, senior government officials, captains of industry, religious leaders and representatives of socio-political organisations.
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo died on December 11, 2025, after collapsing in his office at the Government House, Yenagoa.
His burial marked the culmination of days of mourning and tributes celebrating a leader widely remembered for humility, integrity and unwavering commitment to the development of Bayelsa State.
