Bayelsa State was thrown into shock on Thursday following the sudden death of its serving Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly slumped earlier in the day. He was aged 60.
Details surrounding the incident remain unclear, as neither the Bayelsa State Government nor members of his family had issued any official statement as at press time. Sources, however, confirmed that the deputy governor collapsed in his office before being rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa.
Security operatives immediately cordoned off the hospital, while top Bayelsa government officials arrived in a tense atmosphere, expressing deep concern over the unfolding situation.
Attempts to reach his media aide, Mr. Doubara Atasi, were unsuccessful, fueling public anxiety and speculation.
A senior official at FMC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, initially disclosed that the deputy governor was receiving “the best possible care” and was “stable.” However, multiple authoritative sources later confirmed that he did not survive the medical emergency.
Born on September 5, 1965, Senator Ewhrudjakpo served as a federal lawmaker before becoming the deputy governor of Bayelsa State in 2020. His unexpected death marks a tragic moment for the state and the nation, leaving a high-ranking public office abruptly vacant.
As at the time of filing this report, the Bayelsa State Government is yet to release an official announcement regarding the passing of the serving deputy governor.
