The Bayelsa State Government has declared three days of mourning following the death of the state’s deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday after collapsing in his office at noon.
The mourning period takes effect immediately, with all flags to be flown at half-mast across the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiowou Koku-Obiyai, described his passing as “painful”, noting that the news had triggered widespread concern and speculation among residents who awaited an official pronouncement.
Koku-Obiyai said the government received the news of his death with “deep regret and profound shock,” adding that the 60-year-old Deputy Governor was active and performing official duties earlier in the day.
According to the statement: “He collapsed while proceeding to a scheduled meeting within his office and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, where he was later confirmed dead.”
The government said his death represents a great loss to Bayelsa State and the nation, describing Ewhrudjakpo as an accomplished public servant who distinguished himself in several roles, including Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Senator representing Bayelsa West, and Deputy Governor since 2020.
Governor Douye Diri, on behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, extended deep condolences to his wife, Her Excellency Barr. (Mrs.) Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children, the Ewhrudjakpo family, Ofoni Federated Community, former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson, and all citizens of the state.
The statement added: “Consequently, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, has declared a state mourning for three 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 prayed for God’s comfort for the family and the entire state, concluding:
“May his gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord.”