Bayelsa State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden passing of its Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died on Thursday, December 11, 2025. The veteran politician, known for his influential role in state politics, reportedly collapsed at his official residence in Yenagoa before being rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Ewhrudjakpo, who was serving under Governor Douye Diri, had a long and distinguished career in Nigerian politics, transitioning seamlessly between legislative and executive roles. His death marks a significant loss for the state's ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and creates an immediate constitutional succession question.
A Storied Political Career
Before becoming Deputy Governor in 2020, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo had already cemented his place in Bayelsa's political landscape. He served as a Senator representing Bayelsa West from 2015 to 2019. Prior to that, he was a two-term member of the House of Representatives for the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency.
His political journey began at the grassroots level, where he earned a reputation as a strategic thinker and a loyal party man. As Deputy Governor, he was a key figure in Governor Diri's administration, often acting as a bridge between the government and the state legislature, where he maintained strong relationships from his time as a lawmaker.
Circumstances and Immediate Aftermath
According to reports from multiple sources close to the state government, the deputy governor fell ill at his official residence. Despite being rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa for emergency medical attention, he could not be revived. The exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed by state authorities as of Thursday evening.
The news sent shockwaves through the state capital. Governor Douye Diri is expected to make an official statement soon. The mood in government circles is described as somber, with activities at the state secretariat slowing to a halt as the news spread.
Constitutional Process and Succession
The death of a deputy governor triggers a clear constitutional procedure. According to the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), the governor is required to formally notify the state House of Assembly of the vacancy. Governor Douye Diri will now be expected to nominate a new deputy governor within a reasonable timeframe.
The nomination must then be confirmed by a majority of the state House of Assembly. This process will undoubtedly become a focal point of political activity in Bayelsa, as various factions within the PDP and other stakeholders vie for influence over the choice of successor.
Tributes and Reactions
Early tributes have begun pouring in, highlighting Ewhrudjakpo's dedication to public service. A former colleague in the National Assembly described him as a "quiet but effective leader who cared deeply for the development of the Niger Delta region."
Residents of his native Sagbama local government area expressed profound grief, remembering him as an accessible leader who frequently visited his constituency. The passing of Senator Ewhrudjakpo leaves a significant void in Bayelsa State's governance and political structure, with the coming days focused on mourning and managing the necessary transition of power.
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