Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has conveyed his condolences to Governor Douye Diri and the people of Bayelsa following the death of Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing his passing as a profound loss to both states.
In a statement personally signed by him and made public on Wednesday, December 17, in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara said Ewhrudjakpo’s death came as a shock, calling him a man of integrity and intellect whose contributions to governance were deeply impactful.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Rivers State, I extend our deepest condolences to you, my brother Governor Douye Diri, and all the people of Bayelsa State over the news of the sudden passing of your Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo,” Fubara said.
He added that the news had thrown both Rivers and Bayelsa States into mourning.
“The sad news resonates across our borders, leaving us in a state of collective mourning alongside our brothers and sisters in Bayelsa State,” he said.
Fubara described the late Ewhrudjakpo as “a man of exceptional calibre whose life was a masterclass in public service,” noting that he carried out his duties with humility and courage.
“Throughout his distinguished career, he navigated the complexities of governance with a rare blend of intellectual depth and profound humility,” the governor said.
According to Fubara, Ewhrudjakpo’s legacy will be remembered for his selfless leadership and commitment to progress.
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“To his family, he was a devoted pillar; to the state, he was a tireless advocate for progress. The vacuum left by his departure is a testament to the magnitude of the space he occupied in the hearts of those who knew him,” he said.
The Rivers governor also offered words of comfort to Governor Diri, urging him to remain resolute and strong.
“May you, my brother Governor, find the inner resolve to lead your people through this dark hour,” he added.
He prayed for the repose of Ewhrudjakpo’s soul, saying, “Our prayers remain with the bereaved family and the entire people of Bayelsa State.
“We pray that the soul of the departed finds eternal repose in the bosom of the Lord, and that those he left behind are granted the fortitude and grace to carry forward his noble legacy.”
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly collapsed and died last Thursday at the Government House in Yenagoa.
Confirming the incident, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the party’s National Working Committee, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), and the entire membership were in deep grief over the loss.
“The National Working Committee, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, and indeed the entire membership of our great party, especially our faithful members in Bayelsa State, are in profound grief,” the PDP said.