Following the sudden death of his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has ordered all members of his cabinet to undergo compulsory medical examinations.
The directive was given during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday in Yenagoa, with Governor Diri instructing the Commissioner for Health, Seiyefa Brisibe, to ensure that every member of the state executive council completes the medical checks.
Governor Diri said the measure is necessary in light of the recent passing of his deputy, noting that public officers with demanding schedules should undergo regular health checks to maintain medical fitness and prevent avoidable deaths. He acknowledged that while death is inevitable, preventive health measures can help ensure good health and longevity.
Diri disclosed that an autopsy had been conducted on the late deputy governor and that the results would be made public at the appropriate time. He also cautioned against politicising Ewhrudjakpoās death and announced the formation of a burial committee, led by the Secretary to the State Government, with the burial date to be communicated soon.
Ewhrudjakpo passed away on December 11, 2025, a development that shocked Bayelsans and drew widespread speculation on social media. The state government had announced his passing more than 24 hours after his death.
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Meanwhile, Commissioner Brisibe presented Governor Diri with an award plaque and a $400,000 dummy cheque, recognizing Bayelsa as first runner-up in the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge for the South-South region. The competition, funded by UNICEF, the Dangote Group, and other international bodies, highlighted the stateās achievements in the health sector.
Governor Diri commended the recognition, describing it as encouraging and a reflection of the governmentās investment in healthcare. Brisibe noted that the award was a result of Diriās commitment to developing the stateās health sector and presented him with the Distinguished Leadership Award in Governance in recognition of his contributions to the growth of the National Association of Nurses and Midwives in Bayelsa and Nigeria.