Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has cut short an official trip outside the state following the death of his Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
The governor, on his return, led a delegation of top government officials to visit the widow of the late deputy governor, Mrs. Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, and other members of the family at their official residence in Government House, Yenagoa.
Governor Diri was accompanied by his wife, Gloria Diri, the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, the immediate past Deputy Governor of the state, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd), and other senior government officials.
Speaking during the visit, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his deputy and offered words of comfort to the family. He assured them of the government’s support, stating that the state would stand with them during the period of mourning.
Governor Diri recalled his long standing relationship with the late Ewhrudjakpo, noting that their partnership began under the immediate past administration and was strengthened during their joint political struggle that culminated in the Supreme Court judgment which brought them into office in 2020.
He described the late deputy governor as a dependable and resourceful partner who played a significant role in advancing the administration’s vision for the development of Bayelsa State. According to the governor, Ewhrudjakpo’s commitment to public service and governance would be greatly missed.
While expressing personal grief over the loss, Governor Diri urged the family and the people of the state to take solace in God. He announced that the Bayelsa State Government would accord the late deputy governor a befitting state burial, adding that consultations would be held with the family to agree on a suitable date.
On behalf of his family and the Bayelsa State Government, the governor extended heartfelt condolences to the widow, children, immediate family, the people of Ofoni Federated Community, former Governor Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and the entire people of Bayelsa State.
He prayed for divine comfort for all those affected by the loss.