Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, 60, has died after collapsing in his office and being rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa. He was confirmed dead on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
- Fast Facts:
- Name: Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, age 60
- Date of death: Thursday, December 11, 2025 — collapsed around 1:30pm
- Immediate cause: Slumped in office; rushed to ICU at FMC Yenagoa and later confirmed dead
- Roles: Bayelsa Deputy Governor (since 2020), former Senator (Bayelsa West), Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure
- Official response: Three working days of state mourning declared; flags to fly at half‑mast
The Commissioner of Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku‑Obiyai, confirmed the sudden death and described Ewhrudjakpo — often called the “workaholic deputy governor” — as active and carrying out official duties earlier the same day before he collapsed en route to a meeting.
“He collapsed while proceeding to a scheduled meeting within his office and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, where he was later confirmed dead,” the commissioner said, adding that Governor Douye Diri has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family and the people of Bayelsa State.
The Legacy
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo leaves behind a record of public service spanning decades. Highlights of his career include:
- Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure: Oversaw major state infrastructure projects and was credited with delivering landmark works even during economic hardship.
- Senator, Bayelsa West: Represented Bayelsa West in the Senate, building a reputation for principled service and constituency focus.
- Deputy Governor (since 2020): Served as deputy to Governor Douye Diri, described by colleagues as loyal, hardworking and a steady hand in government.
Colleagues also recall his roots as a union activist, his pursuit of higher education — including studying law up to a doctorate — and his reputation as a loyal mentee of former governor and senator Seriake Dickson.
Social Proof — Reactions and Tributes
Tributes poured in across the country. Governor Douye Diri announced three working days of state mourning and ordered flags at half‑mast, calling the loss “painful” and a blow to Bayelsa and the nation.
Former governor and senator Seriake Dickson described December 11 as one of his saddest days, calling Ewhrudjakpo “a most selfless, dedicated, honest and loyal public servant,” a dependable mentee and a man of principle whose simplicity produced profound impact.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde mourned a “loyal party man and courageous democrat,” offering prayers for the family and the state. Other state officials and party members echoed condolences, highlighting Ewhrudjakpo’s openness, dedication to service and steady leadership.
The Bayelsa government will coordinate funeral arrangements and further public notices; the sudden vacancy in the deputy governorship will shape the state’s political calendar in the coming days.
For Bayelsans and colleagues who worked with him, Ewhrudjakpo’s death is both a personal loss and a moment of reflection on public service and sacrifice.
Image Referance: https://guardian.ng/news/bayelsans-makinde-dickson-mourn-as-deputy-governor-goes-home/