By Deborah Nnamdi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday after reportedly collapsing earlier in the day.
News of the deputy governor’s health crisis had triggered anxiety across Yenagoa after he suddenly slumped in his office shortly after midday and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC). Medical sources said his condition appeared cardiac-related, noting that he was in severe distress on arrival before being taken into the Intensive Care Unit. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he did not survive.
In a statement released late Thursday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, described the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death as devastating, noting that the party’s National Working Committee, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), and members nationwide were deeply shaken.
“The Peoples Democratic Party has received with deep shock the news of the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and a trusted, faithful party man, His Excellency Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo,” the statement read. “This tragic loss has plunged the entire party, especially our faithful members in Bayelsa State, into profound grief.”
The party praised Ewhrudjakpo as an honest, principled politician whose public service was anchored on conviction, integrity, and strength of character.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of this hero of political integrity, and we pray that God grants his soul eternal rest. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Bayelsa State on this painful and irreparable loss,” the PDP added.
Before the incident, Ewhrudjakpo and former governor Senator Seriake Dickson were believed to be considering leaving the PDP for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), though no official confirmation had been issued.
As news of the emergency spread earlier in the day, security around the FMC was tightened, with armed personnel restricting access as top government officials arrived at the facility. Attempts to reach his media aide, Doubara Atasi, were unsuccessful.
The Bayelsa State government has yet to release an official statement regarding the deputy governor’s passing.
