Bayelsa Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo Dies After Sudden Collapse, PDP Confirms

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Oboraw-Harievwo Ewhrudjakpo, following reports earlier in the day that he had collapsed.

The confirmation came late Thursday through a statement issued by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, who described the news as “deeply shocking” and a major loss to the party. The Bayelsa State government has not yet released its own official statement.

According to the PDP, Ewhrudjakpo was regarded as a loyal and principled party member, known within the party structure for his consistency and firm political convictions. The statement added that his passing had thrown the National Working Committee and members across Bayelsa into mourning.

The party offered condolences to the state government and residents of Bayelsa, praying for the repose of his soul.

A Career Marked by Loyalty and Recent Tensions

Ewhrudjakpo served as Deputy Governor from 2020 until his death, working alongside Governor Douye Diri. He was first elected in 2019 and returned for a second term following the 2023 governorship election.

In recent months, he had been at the centre of political tensions in the state. He notably stayed away when Governor Diri defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in October, maintaining his position in the PDP despite mounting pressure.

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His refusal to cross over with the governor reportedly triggered friction with some lawmakers, prompting him to file a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja to stop an alleged impeachment plot against him.

Ewhrudjakpo’s death brings an abrupt end to those political battles, leaving the state’s leadership structure facing fresh uncertainty.