The Life and Legacy of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo: Bayelsa's Late Deputy Governor

A Tribute to a Servant Leader

The Nigerian political landscape and Bayelsa State in particular were plunged into mourning on December 11, 2025, following the sudden death of Deputy Governor Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo. The 60-year-old statesman collapsed while heading to a scheduled meeting in his office at the Government House, Yenagoa, and was pronounced dead at the Federal Medical Centre. His passing marked the end of a life dedicated to public service, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

Early Life and Educational Journey

Born on September 5, 1965, in Ofoni at Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo came from the family of Chief and Mrs. Awhowho Ewhrudjakpo. From his early years, he demonstrated an insatiable appetite for knowledge that would become the hallmark of his life.

His educational journey began at Ebikimiye Primary School, Kpakiama, where he completed his primary education in 1976. He attended Government College Bomadi in 1982 before completing his secondary education at Community Secondary School, Ofoni, where he obtained his West African School Certificate in 1987.

A Scholar's Pursuit

What set Ewhrudjakpo apart was his relentless pursuit of academic excellence. His tertiary education journey included:

Diploma in Community Health from Rivers State College of Health Science and Technology (1989-1991)

Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Administration from Rivers State University of Science and Technology (1991-1996)

Master's in Business Administration (Management Option) from Rivers State University (1998-2000)

LLB Honours in Law from Rivers State University (2002-2007)

Certificate Course in Change Management from Said Business School, Oxford University, UK (2006-2007)

Master of Science in Coaching and Consulting for Change from HEC School of Management, Paris, France (2008-2009)

Diploma in Mediation, Negotiation and Arbitration from the Centre for Conflict Resolution, Ghana

LLM in International Human Rights Law from Birmingham City University, UK (2011-2012)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Rights and Labour Law from Rivers State University, conferred on December 16, 2023

Lawrence Ewrudjakpo at the convocation ceremony

He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2009, adding legal practice to his impressive portfolio of qualifications.

Career in Public Service

Early Professional Experience

Ewhrudjakpo began his career in community health and administration, serving in various capacities across Rivers and Bayelsa States. His roles included Head of Administration in the Port Harcourt City Council Primary Health Care Department and Assistant Coordinator for Monitoring and Evaluation in Bayelsa.

From 1996 to 2003, he served as Secretary General of the National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria (NACHPN), later elevated to Executive Secretary, a position he held until 2012. During this period, he helped shape national discussions on health reforms and community health systems.

Between 2009 and 2012, he operated as Principal Partner at GoldMark Chambers, establishing himself in legal practice while maintaining close ties to public institutions and policy groups.

Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure

Senator Ewhrudjakpo previously held roles as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure during the administration of Governor Henry Seriake Dickson. One of his most significant achievements during this period was the construction of the Bayelsa International Airport, accomplished despite challenging economic conditions marked by a national recession. He held this position for the full eight-year tenure of the administration, earning recognition for advancing the state's infrastructural development.

Senatorial Career

On October 4, 2018, Ewhrudjakpo won the PDP primary election for Bayelsa West Senatorial District. In the February 23, 2019 senatorial election, Ewhrudjakpo was announced winner, having defeated Mathew Karimo of the APC by polling 49,912 votes to Karimo's 20,219 votes. He represented Bayelsa West Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly from 2019 to 2020, demonstrating legislative acumen and commitment to his constituents.

Photo of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo in Court

Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State

Ewhrudjakpo was selected as running mate to Douye Diri in the November 2019 governorship election. Although the APC candidate initially won the election, the Supreme Court on February 13, 2020, ordered INEC to withdraw the Certificate of Return issued to the APC candidate after his running mate was found guilty of presenting false certificates. The court directed INEC to issue a new certificate to the candidate with the next highest votes and required constitutional spread, which were Douye Diri and Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Swearing in of the late deputy governor and senator Douye Diri

They were sworn in on February 14, 2020, and were subsequently re-elected in 2023, with Ewhrudjakpo continuing to serve until his death in 2025.

Key Achievements as Deputy Governor

Conflict Resolution and Peace Building

Serving as Deputy Governor under the Prosperity Administration, Ewhrudjakpo played a critical role in resolving numerous long-standing inter- and intra-communal disputes. He spent long hours negotiating peace in riverine communities, urging restraint and dialogue. His efforts in conflict resolution significantly contributed to stabilizing local communities and enhancing the security of vital national assets, including oil pipelines across the state's creeks.

He was known to say, "No matter how strong a matter is, there is always a solution. Once there is a dispute and a life is lost, it becomes difficult to resolve. We encourage everyone to maintain the path of peace."

Maritime Security Leadership

Ewhrudjakpo was appointed Chairman of the Nigerian International Coastal Border Platform, comprising coastal states of Lagos, Delta, Ogun, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ondo, and Bayelsa. The platform's primary objective was to harmonize maritime laws, including effective implementation of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act, to combat piracy and maritime-related crimes across Nigeria's coastal borders.

Personal Character and Values

A Man of Principle

The PDP described Ewhrudjakpo as an honest and consistent politician who believed in and practiced politics with principle, a person of conviction rather than convenience, whose life was anchored on belief, integrity, and strength of character.

Known as the "workaholic Deputy Governor," he was widely respected for his commitment, discipline, and dedication to public service. Those who worked with him spoke of his near obsession with learning and improvement. He frequently encouraged young people to "study beyond your comfort" and credited education for shaping his rise from a small community in Sagbama to the upper tiers of national politics.

A Champion of Political Integrity

In October 2024, when Governor Douye Diri defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ewhrudjakpo chose to remain in the PDP, demonstrating remarkable political courage and principle. This decision led to speculation about potential impeachment proceedings, and he subsequently approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to restrain the Bayelsa State House of Assembly from pursuing any impeachment plot.

The PDP later described him as "a hero of political integrity," recognizing his refusal to abandon his party despite potential consequences.

Tributes and National Mourning

State and National Recognition

Governor Douye Diri declared a three-day state mourning period beginning Friday, December 12, 2025, with all flags flying at half-mast. The governor expressed heartfelt condolences to Ewhrudjakpo's wife, Barrister Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children, and the extended family.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the late Ewhrudjakpo as a diligent and selfless public servant who served Bayelsa State and Nigeria with patriotism and commitment. The President encouraged the government and people of Bayelsa State to preserve and uphold his legacy.

Testimonies from Leaders

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, during a condolence visit to Government House, Yenagoa, described Ewhrudjakpo as someone his foundation would never forget, noting that the late deputy governor represented the governor actively in all their programs.

Former Governor Seriake Dickson stated that December 11 would remain one of his saddest days, describing Ewhrudjakpo as "a most selfless, dedicated, honest and loyal public servant and politician" who followed the creed of service to man being service to God.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the death as "a sad and painful loss to the state and the Peoples Democratic Party," while Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, as chairperson of the Southern Governors' Forum, expressed profound shock at the news.

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) declared three days of mourning, with National Chairman Ambassador Godknows Igali describing the loss as "very painful" and highlighting Ewhrudjakpo's service with "simplicity, candour, and patriotism."

Controversy and Investigation

Governor Diri has directed that an autopsy be conducted to determine the cause of death, addressing speculation and rumors circulating on social media. The governor condemned attempts to politicize the deputy governor's death, appealing for respect and unity during the mourning period.

Legacy and Impact

Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo's life represents a remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Sagbama to the highest echelons of political leadership in Nigeria. His story is one of academic excellence, professional competence, political courage, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Lessons for Students and Young Nigerians

For students and young Nigerians, Ewhrudjakpo's life offers several valuable lessons:

The Power of Education: His relentless pursuit of knowledge across multiple disciplines demonstrates that education remains the most reliable path to success and impact.

Versatility and Adaptability: From community health to law, from management to human rights, his diverse qualifications enabled him to serve effectively in various capacities.

Integrity in Politics: His decision to stand by his principles even when it was politically disadvantageous shows that leadership requires moral courage.

Service Above Self: Throughout his career, he prioritized the welfare of communities and the state over personal ambition.

Conflict Resolution: His work in peace-building demonstrates the importance of dialogue and mediation in resolving disputes.

Conclusion

Ewhrudjakpo's death leaves a major vacancy in Bayelsa's political life. His life stands as the story of a man whose journey stretched from a village classroom to some of the most demanding offices in Nigerian public service.

As Bayelsa State and Nigeria mourn this exceptional leader, his legacy of service, education, integrity, and commitment to peace and development will continue to inspire future generations. He exemplified what dedicated public service looks like, and his contributions to Bayelsa State's development, particularly in infrastructure, conflict resolution, and maritime security, will be felt for years to come.

Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo's sudden passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of making every moment count in service to others. His 60 years were packed with achievement, learning, and meaningful contribution to society. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

This article was prepared by nduStudentHub as a tribute to the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State. May his memory continue to inspire excellence and service in young Nigerians.