The Bayelsa State Government has officially released the burial schedule for its late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. Governor Douye Diri made the announcement, confirming that the final interment will take place on January 30, 2026.
Official Announcement and Funeral Committee
Governor Diri revealed the plans during the 179th session of the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Yenagoa. He informed the council and the public that a committee, headed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, had been constituted to oversee the funeral arrangements. The committee, working in conjunction with the family and the late deputy governor's church, has finalised a comprehensive four-day programme.
Detailed Four-Day Funeral Programme
The funeral activities are set to commence on January 27, 2026, with a series of sporting events. This choice honours Ewhrudjakpo's role, as he was the supervising commissioner for the State Ministry of Sports at the time of his passing.
On January 28, a Day of Tributes will be held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in the state capital, Yenagoa. This will be followed by a two-part special valedictory session on January 29. The first part will take place at the State High Court Complex in Yenagoa, with the second session convening at the Executive Council Chambers within the Government House.
The final day, January 30, will begin with a requiem Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in his hometown of Ofoni Community, Sagbama Local Government Area. The ceremony will conclude with his interment.
Remembering Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
The late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, passed away on December 11, 2025, at the age of 60. He tragically slumped in his office while carrying out his official duties. Despite immediate efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa.
Governor Diri, speaking on January 14, expressed the state's collective grief and the desire to give their departed colleague a dignified farewell. The detailed programme reflects his service and the various facets of his public life, from sports to governance and faith.
