Bayelsa govt breaks silence on deputy gov’s death, declares 3-day mourning

The Bayelsa State Government has confirmed the death of the Deputy Governor, Dr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died on Thursday at the age of 60.

The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, in a statement issued on Friday, said the deputy governor was active and carrying out official duties on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

Koku-Obiyai stated that Ewhrudjakpo collapsed while proceeding to a scheduled meeting within his office and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State, where he was later confirmed dead.

Koku-Obiyai described Ewhrudjakpo’s demise as a painful loss to Bayelsa State and Nigeria, noting his distinguished service as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Senator representing Bayelsa West, and Deputy Governor since 2020.

Bayelsa govt keeps mum as PDP mourns deputy governor

The commissioner added that Governor Douye Diri, in honour of his late deputy, declared a three-day state mourning beginning Friday, December 12, with all flags to be flown at half-mast.

She said: “Governor Douye Diri, on behalf of the Government and people of Bayelsa State, expresses heartfelt condolences to his wife, Her Excellency, Barr. Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children, the Ewhrudjakpo family, Ofoni Federated Community, His Excellency, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and all citizens of the State.

“Consequently, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, has declared a State Mourning for 3 working days in honour of the late Deputy Governor beginning from today, Friday, December 12, 2025. All flags are to fly at half-mast.

“The Governor further prays for God’s comfort and strength for the family and the entire State.”

The Star