PANDEF Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Declares Three Days of National Mourning

PANDEF Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Declares Three Days of National Mourning

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, PhD, who passed away on Thursday, 11th December 2025.

In a statement on Friday, the National Chairman of PANDEF, Ambassador Dr Godknows Boladei Igali, described the loss as “very painful” and announced three days of mourning in honour of the late deputy governor.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo, affectionately known as the “workaholic Deputy Governor,” was widely respected for his commitment, discipline, and dedication to public service.

Ambassador Igali highlighted his impactful tenure as Commissioner of Works in Bayelsa State, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the state’s infrastructural development.

His subsequent service as Senator representing Bayelsa West in the 9th Senate of Nigeria was also marked by significant achievements.

Describing him as a leader who served with “simplicity, candour, and patriotism,” the PANDEF chairman noted that Senator Ewhrudjakpo left a lasting legacy of integrity and service to humanity.

In honour of his memory, Ambassador Igali directed all PANDEF branches across Nigeria to suspend official activities from Friday, 12th December 2025.

“We convey our deepest condolences to the Governor, the Government and people of Bayelsa State, the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, the Ofoni Community in Sagbama Local Government Area, and his immediate family,” he added.

He prayed for the repose of the late deputy governor’s soul, saying, “May the soul of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo rest in perfect peace.”