Diri, Jonathan, Dickson, PANDEF, INC, Others Pay Glowing Tributes to Late Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Governor Seriake Dickson and other prominent Nigerians have paid glowing tributes to the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing him as a distinguished public servant whose life of service left an enduring legacy.

Governor Diri, speaking at the Night of Tribute organised by the Bayelsa State Government at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, described his late deputy as a consummate public servant, a man of deep wisdom, tireless commitment and uncommon dedication to duty. He said Ewhrudjakpo was a dependable leader who provided guidance and support to many, likening him to “a tree that gave shade to all.”

The governor, who attended the event alongside his wives, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Diri and Justice (Mrs.) Patience Ama Diri, urged politicians and leaders to honour the memory of the late deputy governor by promoting unity and upholding the values of integrity, service and selflessness which he embodied throughout his public life.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his tribute, said the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death came as a devastating shock, noting that he was yet to fully recover from the loss. Jonathan described the late deputy governor as an extraordinary politician and a diligent public officer who discharged his responsibilities with commitment and a strong sense of duty.

Also speaking, former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Senator Seriake Dickson, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ewhrudjakpo, whom he described as a trusted partner in the collective journey of service to the people of Bayelsa State. Dickson said the late deputy governor was deeply committed to upholding the integrity and values of the state.

The event featured a documentary on the life and times of the late Ewhrudjakpo, as well as the presentation of a compendium highlighting some of his widely admired proverbs and words of wisdom.

Dignitaries at the Night of Tribute included former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; first Military Governor of old Rivers State, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff; senators Benson Agadaga (Bayelsa East) and Konbowei Benson (Bayelsa Central); members of the House of Representatives, including Chief Fred Agbedi, Mrs. Marie Ebikake, Hon. Oforji Oboku, Rodney Ambaowei and Mitema Obordor.

Others in attendance were the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, and members of the Assembly; former Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi; immediate past Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah; the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; members of the State Executive Council; service commanders; traditional rulers led by HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo.

Also present were the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba; Chairman of PANDEF, Dr. Boladei Igali; President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri; APC Caretaker Committee Chairman in Bayelsa State, Chief Dennis Otiotio; members of the Ewhrudjakpo family, top government officials and other members of the public.

The Night of Tribute was marked by solemn reflections, heartfelt tributes and a collective resolve to preserve the ideals and legacy of the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.