Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed deep shock and sadness over the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, describing his death as a profound loss to Bayelsa State and the nation at large.
In a condolence statement, Jonathan said the late deputy governor was a devoted steward of Bayelsa, a patriot and a loyal servant who dedicated his life to the welfare and progress of the state and Nigeria.
According to the former president, Ewhrudjakpo distinguished himself throughout his years in public service, earning widespread respect for his diligence, commitment and passion for good governance.
“Senator Ewhrudjakpo was a devoted steward of Bayelsa, a patriot, and a loyal servant of our state and nation. He demonstrated unwavering passion for the welfare of our people and earned the respect and admiration of many across the country,” Jonathan said.
He noted that the late deputy governor brought depth, insight and eloquence to every office he occupied, whether as Commissioner, Senator or Deputy Governor, adding that he was also known for his warm sense of humour and quest for knowledge.
Jonathan described Ewhrudjakpo’s passing as a profound loss not only to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, but also to his immediate family and associates who worked closely with him.
“He will be remembered for his forthrightness, dedication to service and steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Bayelsa,” he added.
The former president extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ewhrudjakpo family and the Bayelsa State Government, urging them to take solace in the impactful and selfless life of service the late deputy governor lived in devotion to his people.
“May his soul rest in peace,” Jonathan prayed.
Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo was until his death the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, a position he assumed in 2020 following his election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside Governor Douye Diri.
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A seasoned administrator and scholar, Ewhrudjakpo built a long career in public service, spanning the executive and legislative arms of government. He previously served as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Bayelsa State, where he played a key role in the development of critical road and public infrastructure projects.
He later represented Bayelsa West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, where he was noted for his intellectual depth, articulate contributions and strong advocacy for the interests of his constituency and the Niger Delta region.
Widely regarded as a calm, loyal and dependable partner in governance, Ewhrudjakpo was a central figure in the Diri administration, contributing to policy formulation and the coordination of key government programmes. His academic background and passion for knowledge also earned him respect across political and professional circles.
The deputy governor died suddenly after collapsing at his office complex in Yenagoa while heading to a scheduled meeting. He was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, where efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. His death at the age of 60 threw Bayelsa State into mourning, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, institutions and citizens across the country.