The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep shock over the sudden death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly collapsed and died on Thursday.
In a statement issued by the National Working Committee (NWC), led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, the party described the news as “devastating,” noting that it had thrown the PDP family nationwide, particularly members in Bayelsa State, into profound grief.
The PDP praised the late deputy governor as an honest, consistent, and principled politician who practiced politics of conviction rather than convenience.
“He was a leader whose life was anchored on belief, integrity, and strength of character.
“He held firmly to these virtues until his final moments,” the party said, describing him as “a hero of political integrity.”
The statement added: “We are deeply saddened by his passing and 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.”
Senator Ewhrudjakpo served as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State from 2020 until his death, following his initial selection as running mate to Governor Douye Diri in the 2019 governorship election. He was reelected alongside Diri in 2023.
His passing comes amid political tensions in the state.
Before his death, the deputy governor was notably absent during Governor Diri’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in October.
Diri had publicly stated that he would not pressure Ewhrudjakpo to join him in the ruling party.
Ewhrudjakpo had also approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to stop the Bayelsa State House of Assembly from pursuing an alleged plot to impeach him for remaining in the PDP.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Bayelsa State government.
