IYC Worldwide Mourns Loss Of Bayelsa Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide issued a heartfelt press statement on Saturday, December 13, 2025, extending its deepest condolences to the family, friends and the people of Bayelsa State following the untimely death of Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. The statement, signed by Spokesman Amb. (Dr.) Binebai Yerin Princewill, described the late senator as “a true son of the Ijaw nation” whose dedication to public service will be remembered for generations.
Born in Ofoni, Tarakiri Kingdom, Bayelsa State, Ewhrudjakpo served with distinction as Deputy Governor and as a Senator of the Federal Republic, championing legislation that benefited the Niger Delta and advocating for marginalized communities. His tenure was marked by tangible development—roads, schools, health centres, and youth‑empowerment programmes—often carried out in close collaboration with Governor Douye Diri ¹. Colleagues, including former Governor Seriake Dickson, recalled his “open‑door policy” and “commitment to service,” noting that his loss is “a painful, irreplaceable loss” to the region ².
The IYC praised Ewhrudjakpo’s humility, mentorship of young Ijaw leaders, and his tireless work to preserve Ijaw culture, language and environmental stewardship. “He was a bridge between tradition and progress,” the council said, urging all Ijaw youths to honor his memory by upholding the values of dedication, solidarity and service. The statement also highlighted the outpouring of grief from political figures and civil groups, with PANDEF declaring three days of mourning and ordering flags to fly at half‑mast ³ ⁴.
The Deputy Governor collapsed in his office on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and was pronounced dead at the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa after a cardiac emergency ⁵. His passing has prompted a three‑day state mourning period, with flags at half‑mast across Bayelsa ¹.
The IYC concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s soul and for strength for his family and the Ijaw nation during this difficult time.
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