Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death of the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly collapsed in his office on Thursday and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.
Governor Diri gave the directive while receiving former President Goodluck Jonathan at the Government House in Yenagoa, as he cautioned against attempts to politicise the deputy governor’s death.
The governor expressed concern over what he described as misleading narratives circulating on social media, stressing the need for restraint and respect during the period of mourning.
“I have directed that an autopsy be carried out to reveal the cause of his death. There is a lot of nonsense going on on social media,” Diri said.
He appealed to Bayelsans to honour the late deputy governor with dignity, noting that death should not be used as a tool for political rivalry.
“In Ijaw land, there is no enmity in death. Let nobody politicise the death of our dearly beloved deputy governor. If anyone truly loves him, this is the time to show it,” he stated.
Governor Diri added that the state government had declared three working days of mourning in honour of the late deputy governor, urging residents to observe the period solemnly.
“If anybody is issuing any statement to eulogise him, let it end there. We are in a mourning mood. Let us love one another, because one day, all of us will answer this call,” the governor said.
In his remarks, former President Goodluck Jonathan described Ewhrudjakpo as a dedicated and hardworking public servant whose commitment to duty stood out.
Jonathan noted that although he once served as deputy governor, Ewhrudjakpo surpassed expectations in the role through his relentless work ethic.
“I was also a deputy governor, but he worked harder than me. He hardly appeared to rest. This is a lesson for all of us to find time to rest,” Jonathan said.
He prayed for divine comfort for the state and the family of the deceased, describing Ewhrudjakpo as humble, respectful, and widely admired.
Following their remarks, Governor Diri and former President Jonathan visited the wife of the late deputy governor, Barrister Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, at their residence within the Government House to commiserate with the family.
