Bayelsa State was thrown into mourning on Thursday after the sudden death of Deputy Governor Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, a development that has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape.
His passing followed hours of uncertainty earlier in the day, as unconfirmed reports circulated that he had collapsed.
The situation sparked widespread concern until the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially announced his death late Thursday night.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP described the tragedy as “a severe blow to the party’s soul,” noting that the news struck the leadership with deep disbelief.
A senior party official, quoted in the statement, said Ewhrudjakpo “was the kind of politician who understood loyalty not as obligation but as personal creed.”
Bayelsa State Government has not yet released an official statement, but several government sources described the atmosphere within Government House as “somber and deeply shaken.”
Moreover, the PDP paid glowing tribute to the late deputy governor, describing him as a steadfast figure whose political career was marked by principle and discipline.
“He was never one to waver once he believed in a cause,” another PDP chieftain said. “His character was firm, his integrity unmistakable.”
Ewhrudjakpo had served as deputy governor since 2020, partnering with Governor Douye Diri in both the 2019 and 2023 election victories.
His tenure coincided with some of Bayelsa’s most challenging political moments, yet he remained a key stabilising figure within the administration.
However, tensions had recently surfaced following Governor Diri’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in October.
Ewhrudjakpo remained in the PDP, and his refusal to join the ruling party triggered impeachment threats from the Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
He had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to stop the process, insisting that political loyalty should not be coerced.
Speaking shortly before the incident, Governor Diri had assured that he would not pressure his deputy to switch parties, saying he believed “dialogue, not force, leads to better outcomes.”
Ewhrudjakpo’s death now leaves a crucial vacuum in Bayelsa politics, one that many within the state describe as both painful and destabilising.
Condolence messages continue to pour in from across the country as residents, party faithful, and political leaders grapple with the unexpected loss.
The PDP has prayed for divine comfort for his family and the people of Bayelsa, urging them to draw strength from the late deputy governor’s legacy of service and conviction.