Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, calling it a painful and heartbreaking loss to the state and to the Peoples Democratic Party.
In a statement released in Ibadan by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, the governor extended his sympathy to the late deputy governor’s family, the Bayelsa State Government, the people of the state, and the PDP community.
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly collapsed at the Government House in Yenagoa on Thursday afternoon and was later confirmed dead.
Makinde described the late deputy governor as a steadfast party loyalist and a committed democrat, praying for God to grant him eternal rest. He also prayed for comfort and strength for his family and the people of Bayelsa State.
He said,
“I received the news of the passing of our brother and the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, with great sadness. His death is a painful blow to the state he served faithfully until his last moments, and to us in the PDP. He was a dedicated party man, always placing loyalty and democratic ideals above personal interest.”
Makinde added that the late deputy governor’s dedication to public service and democracy would be remembered.
Also reacting, the South-South Governors’ Forum and the PDP expressed grief over Ewhrudjakpo’s death.
In a condolence message, Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, commiserated with Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, describing Ewhrudjakpo as a dependable partner in governance. He also extended condolences to the deceased’s family and associates.
