By Amofokhai Williams
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially announced the passing of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing it as an “inexplicable loss” and a source of “indescribable pain” for the party and the people of Bayelsa.
In a press release issued on Thursday evening by National Publicity Secretary Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP expressed profound shock at the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death, which occurred earlier the same day after he reportedly collapsed in his office at the Government House in Yenagoa.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has received with deep shock the news of the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and a trusted, faithful party man, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly collapsed and died earlier today,” the statement read.
The party hailed the late deputy governor as “an honest and consistent politician who believed in and practiced politics with principle.”
It portrayed him as “a person of conviction, not convenience; a leader whose life was anchored on belief, integrity, and strength of character,” noting that he upheld these virtues until his final moments.
Born on September 5, 1965, Ewhrudjakpo was 60 years old at the time of his death.
A former Senator representing Bayelsa West in the 9th National Assembly, he had served as deputy governor since February 2020 alongside Governor Douye Diri.
Reports indicate that Ewhrudjakpo collapsed around 1:30 p.m. while attending to official duties. He was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, where medical efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful.
Sources close to the matter suggested his demanding workload may have contributed to the incident, with some noting he had been performing duties despite apparent signs of illness.
As of Thursday evening, the Bayelsa State Government had not issued an official statement on the deputy governor’s passing, leaving the PDP’s announcement as the primary confirmation from a major stakeholder.
The PDP extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Bayelsa State, calling the loss “painful and irreparable.” It prayed for eternal rest for Ewhrudjakpo’s soul and strength for his family, colleagues, and supporters during this period of grief.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria’s political landscape. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, described the death as a shocking blow, praising Ewhrudjakpo’s dedication to service even in the face of illness.
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the late deputy’s integrity and inspiring leadership.
