“A Death Too Painful” – Senator Dickson Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor

Bayelsa State and its political community have been thrown into deep mourning following the sudden death of Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor on Wednesday, December 11.

Former Governor of Bayelsa and serving senator, Henry Seriake Dickson, described the tragedy as one of the most painful moments of his public life. Dickson, who was preparing to participate in the Senate’s screening of ambassadorial nominees, said he received an urgent call about a medical emergency involving the deputy governor. After speaking with aides and doctors and monitoring the situation from home, the news of Ewhrudjakpor’s passing was confirmed.

In an emotional tribute, Dickson praised the late deputy governor as an exceptionally loyal, honest and selfless public servant, calling him “irreplaceable” and one of the most dedicated mentees he ever worked with. He noted that Ewhrudjakpor embodied a rare blend of competence, intellect, humility, and unwavering loyalty throughout his career.

Dickson recalled their decades-long relationship, which began in the 1990s when Ewhrudjakpor was a union activist and he was a young lawyer. Their professional journey spanned several roles: Ewhrudjakpor served as his Personal Assistant when Dickson became Attorney General, later as Senior Legislative Aide in the House of Representatives, and then as Commissioner for Works during Dickson’s eight-year governorship, where he played a key role in executing major infrastructural projects—even during periods of economic recession.

He went on to represent Bayelsa West in the Senate before being selected as Deputy Governor, a role Dickson said he executed with remarkable dedication and loyalty. He noted that Ewhrudjakpor remained steadfast through political challenges, standing by his principles even at personal cost.

Dickson emphasized that Ewhrudjakpor’s open-door style of leadership and lifelong commitment to service touched countless lives across Bayelsa and beyond. He described the loss as especially devastating for him, second only to the pain felt by the late deputy governor’s immediate family.

He extended condolences to Ewhrudjakpor’s wife, children, extended family, the Ofoni community, Bayelsa West Senatorial District, the Catholic Church, and the many associates and supporters who admired him. Dickson added that the large number of calls and visits he has received since the news broke reflects the impact of the deputy governor’s service.

The family, in consultation with the Bayelsa State Government, is expected to announce funeral arrangements soon. Dickson urged the public to pray for the peaceful repose of Ewhrudjakpor’s soul and for strength for the family and the state to bear the loss.

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