Bayelsa State’s deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has died after collapsing unexpectedly in his office on Wednesday.
The incident occurred at about 1:30 p.m., with staff rushing to assist after he slumped without any prior sign of distress.
According to a senior official who spoke anonymously, his condition deteriorated rapidly before help could stabilise him.
He was immediately taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, where doctors confirmed him dead shortly after arrival despite efforts to resuscitate him.
The news triggered a surge of top government officials to the hospital, forcing security operatives to tighten access as they worked to manage the crowd and maintain order.
Early indications suggest a possible cardiac-related emergency, though medical authorities have not yet issued an official report.
Ewhrudjakpo, born on 5 September 1965, was widely regarded as a dedicated public servant known for long working hours and heavy responsibilities.
Before becoming deputy governor, he served as a federal lawmaker and remained a major voice in state policy matters.
Tributes have poured in across Bayelsa, with one post on X describing his passing as “a painful and unimaginable loss”, highlighting his commitment to service and the void his death leaves in governance and among the people.
