The political landscape of Bayelsa State has been gripped by sorrow following the sudden death of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who has been widely eulogized by both former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson as a deeply loyal and dedicated public servant.
Both Nigerian leaders took to social media to express their shock and sadness over the passing of Ewhrudjakpo, describing his demise as a significant and irreparable loss to the state and the nation.
Jonathan Praises Dedication and Humour
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described the late Deputy Governor as a humble, dedicated, intelligent, and humorous public servant who worked tirelessly for Bayelsa and Nigeria.
In his tribute, Jonathan stated that Ewhrudjakpo was committed to good governance and would be remembered for his forthrightness and steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Bayelsa.
“His passing is a profound loss to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, his immediate family and to all of us who knew him closely,” Jonathan said, while extending heartfelt condolences and urging the bereaved to find solace in the impactful and selfless life the Deputy Governor lived.
Dickson Mourns a Principled Mentee
Similarly, former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, expressed deep mourning, stating that the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death was “too painful” and difficult to accept. Dickson, who mentored the late Deputy Governor, praised him as one of his most loyal and hardworking political associates, a man of integrity and courage.
Dickson highlighted Ewhrudjakpo’s exceptional character, calling him a “rare combination of competence, intellect, loyalty and selflessness.” He emphasized the deceased’s unwavering loyalty, even when it placed him in difficult political situations.
“I have personally lost a dependable, loyal and principled mentee… Dr Ewhrudjakpor was clearly the best among my political mentees,” Dickson remarked.
The former Governor further detailed Ewhrudjakpo’s distinguished career, noting his service as Commissioner for Works, Senator, and Deputy Governor. Dickson also acknowledged his commitment to education, having earned a law degree up to the PhD level despite his busy schedule, and his dedication to the Catholic Church.
Dickson concluded by stating the void left by his mentee would be hard to fill, but that the people of Bayelsa must remain proud of his “honest, dedicated, selfless, loyal and principled service to God and humanity to the very end.”
