The Government House in Yenagoa became a hub of solemn solidarity on Monday as prominent national figures and regional groups arrived to condole with Governor Douye Diri over the sudden passing of his Deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Leading the wave of sympathisers was the Forum of Deputy Governors in Nigeria, alongside the Chairman of the Coscharis Group, Cosmas Maduka, and the leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.
The Chairman of the Deputy Governors’ Forum and Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, led a high-powered delegation of his colleagues to honour the man they described as the “intellectual engine room” of the forum.
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Ossai noted that late Ewhrudjakpo served the people of Bayelsa with unparalleled affection and dedication, both in the red chamber and in his role as Deputy Governor.
“He was essentially the most vibrant, fiercely loyal to his colleagues and friends.
He was a gentleman who had solutions to most problems—calm and always giving advice drawn from his deep experience,” Ossai remarked.
The governor also hosted the President and CEO of Coscharis Group, Cosmas Maduka, who paid his respects to the late “workaholic” leader.
Similarly, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), led by President Jonathan Lokpobiri, expressed the collective grief of the Ijaw nation.
The council praised Ewhrudjakpo as a community leader who never lost touch with his roots despite his high political office.Ewhrudjakpo passed away unexpectedly on December 11, 2025, after collapsing in his office at the Government House.
His death at the age of 60 has triggered weeks of mourning across Nigeria, with Diri recently ordering an autopsy and a thorough review of the state’s healthcare infrastructure to honour his deputy’s legacy.
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Colleagues emphasised his ” intellectual content” and problem-solving approach to governance.
He was celebrated for his unwavering support of Diri and the PDP.
The visits from the private sector and youth groups underscore the wide-reaching impact of the late Senator’s career.
