KEY POINTS
- The Bayelsa mourning declaration follows the deputy governor’s sudden death.
- Flags will remain at half-mast during the mourning period.
- The state government released details of his collapse and passing.
Bayelsa State Government has announced three days of official mourning for Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. He died on Thursday after collapsing in his office at midday. The government confirmed that the mourning period would begin at once, and flags at state buildings would fly at half-mast in his honour.
Bayelsa mourning declaration triggers reactions
Accoridng to Punch, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiowou Koku-Obiyai, released the announcement on Friday. She said the administration received the news of his passing with pain and described the moment as difficult for the state. Her confirmation followed several hours of speculation as residents waited for an official account of what happened.
Koku-Obiyai said the late deputy governor had been on duty earlier in the day. She noted that he was preparing for a scheduled meeting when he collapsed in his office. Staff rushed him to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, where doctors later confirmed his death. He was 60.
She said his death represented a significant loss to Bayelsa State, as his contribution shaped several public projects across the state. Her statement praised his service as a former Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, former Senator for Bayelsa West, and Deputy Governor since 2020.
State draws focus to Bayelsa mourning declaration
Governor Douye Diri conveyed his condolences to the late deputy governor’s wife, Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children and the extended Ewhrudjakpo family. He also extended sympathy to the Ofoni Federated Community, former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson and all Bayelsa residents. The governor described the deputy governor as a dedicated public servant who maintained commitment to state duties until his final day.
The governor then issued the Bayelsa mourning declaration. He said the state would observe three working days of mourning starting Friday, December 12, 2025. All public institutions must keep flags at half-mast for the duration. Diri also called for strength and comfort for the family and the state as they navigate the period of grief. His message ended with a prayer for the late deputy governor’s peaceful rest.
