Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday.
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly slumped on Thursday afternoon and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, where he was confirmed dead.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said he received the news “with shock,” noting that the late deputy governor was at his office performing official duties shortly before the incident.
According to him, the circumstance of Ewhrudjakpo’s death underscores his dedication to service.
“He apparently defied illness to serve the people of Bayelsa State,” Abiodun said.
The governor extended condolences to Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, as well as the government and people of the state, urging them to take solace in the life of commitment and service lived by the deceased.
“I received news of the demise of the deputy governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, with deep sorrow,” he said. “The incident came as a profound shock to all of us, but we submit to the will of the Almighty God, who has chosen to call him home at this time.”
Abiodun described Governor Diri’s loss as particularly painful, noting that he has “lost a dependable ally,” and extended sympathy to the family and friends of the late deputy governor.
“It is my sincere prayer that the Almighty God will be with them and give them the strength to survive this hour of pain and sorrow,” he added.
The governor said Bayelsa State and Nigeria had lost “a gem,” but urged the public to take comfort in the fact that Ewhrudjakpo lived a life dedicated to public service.
“May his gentle soul rest in sweet repose,” he said.