In a shock and agonising mood, the Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Rt Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing his death as a painful blow to Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria.
The former deputy governor of Edo state, in heartfelt condolences on his official Facebook page, praised Ewhrudjakpo as “a steadfast leader, a reliable ally, and a man who combined uncommon humility with an unwavering commitment to public service.” — https://www.facebook.com/share/1ABvxP8xwm/
Shaibu noted that the late senator’s contributions to governance and national development would remain indelible in the hearts of many.
As a mark of respect and mourning, Shaibu announced the cancellation of his annual Family Christmas Carol event scheduled for December 14, 2024. He said the decision was made to honour Ewhrudjakpo’s memory and to grieve with his family and the people of Bayelsa during their period of grief, while appealing to invited guests for the sudden, inevitable cancellation of the annual gathering to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Shaibu extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, Governor Douye Diri, constituents, and all who were touched by the senator’s exemplary life.
He prayed for God to grant the family strength and comfort, adding that Nigeria has lost “a true patriot whose voice of wisdom will be greatly missed.”
Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, born on 5th September 1965, served as the deputy governor of Bayelsa State from 2020 until he died in 2025. He was the senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District from 2019 to 2020 in the 9th National Assembly.
Ewhrudjakpo served as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure under the “Restoration Government” of the immediate past Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson. He held this position for the full eight-year tenure of the administration.
One of his most significant achievements during this period was the construction of the Bayelsa International Airport. Despite the challenging economic climate marked by a national recession, Senator Ewhrudjakpo demonstrated resilience and commitment in ensuring the successful execution of this landmark project, alongside several other key infrastructural developments