Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, on Wednesday struggled to hold back tears as he paid a moving tribute to his late deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing his death as a deeply personal and painful loss.
The governor spoke at a Day of Tribute organized by the Bayelsa State Government in honour of the deceased at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Yenagoa.
Recounting his pain since Ewhrudjakpo’s sudden death on December 11, 2025, Diri said each opportunity to speak about his deputy left him emotionally overwhelmed.
He noted that the passing of his deputy had reminded him of the fleeting nature of life and that he was now left alone to complete the journey they both began on February 14, 2020.
Describing Ewhrudjakpo as a consummate public servant, loyal ally and brother, the governor urged Bayelsans to honour his memory by sustaining unity and upholding the values he stood for.
Words cannot adequately capture the deep sense of loss I feel today. I miss his advice. My heart aches. Lawrence, where are you?” Diri said repeatedly.
“I have lost a true friend, colleague and brother. To some, he was hard; to others, he was gentle. To me, he was a man of many proverbs.
Governor Diri described his late deputy as dependable, resourceful, hardworking and a man of uncompromising integrity, noting that his loyalty to government, family and friends would continue to inspire many.
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, in his tribute, described Ewhrudjakpo as an unusual and explary politician who served the state diligently, both as Commissioner for Works and later as Deputy Governor.
Ewhrudjakpo was a lively, extraordinary politician who believed in doing what was right,” Jonathan said, urging the political class to emulate his conduct.
Also paying tribute, former Bayelsa Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Chief Seriake Dickson, said he was devastated by the sudden loss of his former deputy, whom he described as a mentee and committed public servant.
His death was too sudden, too shattering and devastating. Since that fateful December 11, I have not been myself, Dickson said, noting it was the first time Bayelsa lost a serving deputy governor.
Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, said Ewhrudjakpo worked tirelessly to advance the vision of the Prosperity Government and would be remembered for placing the state’s interest above personal considerations.
Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, described the day of his passing as a dark moment for the judiciary, adding that although his death was painful, she was consoled that he died peacefully.
Several leaders, including members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders and Niger Delta stakeholders, described Ewhrudjakpo’s death as a huge loss not only to Bayelsa State but to the entire Niger Delta region.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Solomon Edward said the late deputy governor was a caring brother and father figure whose absence would be deeply felt by the family and the Ofoni federated communities of Sagbama Local Government Area.
The event was attended by dignitaries from across the country, including former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, serving and former lawmakers, traditional rulers, captains of industry and senior government officials.
