Amanze Chinonye
Bayelsa State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of its Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who collapsed in his office at the Government House, Yenagoa, on Thursday afternoon and was later confirmed dead at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, Prime Business Africa reports.
According to verified accounts, the 60-year-old deputy governor slumped at about 1:30 p.m. while attending to official duties. He was immediately assisted by aides and rushed to FMC, where doctors placed him on emergency care. Despite sustained efforts by medical personnel, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) formally confirmed his death, describing it as an “inexplicable loss” that has left the party and the nation in deep grief. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said Ewhrudjakpo was a steadfast and principled leader whose contributions to public service would be remembered for years.
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Ewhrudjakpo, who had served as Deputy Governor since February 2020, previously represented Bayelsa West in the Nigerian Senate, where he was known for his legislative activism and loyalty to his constituents.
Reacting to the news, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum, said he received the announcement of Ewhrudjakpo’s passing “with deep sorrow.” Abiodun described him as a dependable colleague and extended condolences to Governor Douye Diri, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State.
While no official medical cause of death has been released, close sources have indicated the possibility of a sudden cardiac-related emergency, though this has not been confirmed by the hospital or family.
Following his death, security presence around FMC Yenagoa intensified, as senior Bayelsa government officials, political allies, and sympathizers arrived at the facility. The Bayelsa State Government is expected to issue a formal statement soon.
Prime Business Africa will continue to monitor and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
