The Bayelsa State Government held a solemn valedictory session in honour of its late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, as part of activities marking his final rites.
The valedictory court session, held at the State High Court Complex, Yenagoa, attracted top government officials, members of the judiciary, lawmakers, senior civil servants, traditional rulers, legal practitioners, political associates, and family members of the deceased, including his wife, Mrs. Ewhrudjakpo, and their children, who were in attendance to pay their last respects.
Among dignitaries present were Governor Douye Diri, his predecessor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Abrakasa-Ayemieye, senior members of the Bar and Bench, and other high-ranking officials.
Speaking in an emotionally laden voice, Governor Diri described the late Ewhrudjakpo as a loyal partner in governance, a dependable ally, and a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the development of Bayelsa State remained unwavering until his passing. He recalled how the deceased led his legal team during his first and second term election cases, noting that he was yet to fully come to terms with the loss of his deputy governor.
The governor said Bayelsa State had lost a dependable leader whose wealth of experience, wisdom, and counsel contributed significantly to the stability and progress recorded by his administration. He expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Judiciary, the Yenagoa and Sagbama branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and members of the legal profession within and outside the state for honouring the late deputy governor through the valedictory session.
Governor Diri explained that the session was organised to formally acknowledge Ewhrudjakpo’s contributions to governance, democracy, and public service, stressing that his legacy of humility, diligence, integrity, and patriotism would continue to inspire present and future leaders.
In her remarks, the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Abrakasa-Ayemieye, described the death of Senator Ewhrudjakpo as a painful and colossal loss to the state and the nation at large. She noted that the late deputy governor was a firm believer in the rule of law and consistently demonstrated respect for judicial processes, adding that his contributions to the development of legal jurisprudence in Bayelsa State would not be forgotten.
Also speaking, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), described the late Ewhrudjakpo as one of the finest lawyers and administrators produced by the state. He said Ewhrudjakpo was a man of integrity whose notable contributions to the growth of the Nigerian legal system and public administration would endure.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, Mr. Clement Kekemeke, described the deceased as an ambassador of the legal profession, lamenting that he passed away at a time when his wealth of experience and wise counsel were still greatly needed.
Several other speakers also recounted the late Ewhrudjakpo’s distinguished career in public service, highlighting his service as a senator, statesman, and deputy governor, as well as his passion for youth empowerment, peace, unity, and good governance in Bayelsa State.
Other dignitaries present included the lawmaker representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Chief Fred Agbedi; his Nembe/Brass counterpart, Mrs. Marie Ebikake; the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; the President of the Bayelsa State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah; top government functionaries, and chief judges of other states, among others.
The atmosphere at the event was solemn, with moments of silence observed in honour of the late deputy governor, as tributes poured in acknowledging his dedication to duty and service to humanity.
The valedictory session formed part of a series of activities lined up by the Bayelsa State Government to honour the late Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo ahead of his burial. Other activities include a night of tributes, religious services, and interment in his hometown in Sagbama Local Government Area.
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo is remembered as a committed leader, seasoned administrator, and bridge-builder whose impact on Bayelsa State politics, governance, and the legal profession will remain enduring.
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