By Foster Akpore
The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Worldwide, under the leadership of its President General, Olorogun Barr. Ese Gam Owe, has extended profound condolences to the family of the late Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, following his sudden passing on 11 December 2025.
According to a release by Comr. Dr. Kehinde Prince Taiga, Publicity Secretary of UPU Worldwide, the condolence visit was carried out under the directive of President General Ese Gam and executed in collaboration with the UPU Bayelsa State Branch. Representing the President General, Bayelsa State President Pst. Godgift Oyeghe led the delegation to the late Deputy Governor’s residence in Yenagoa, offering comfort to the bereaved family.
The delegation included Chief Oruru Charles, Immediate Past President; Hon. Justice Margaret Akpomiemie (rtd), former Acting Chief Judge of Bayelsa State; Comr. Godgift Okrika, President of the UPU Youth Wing; Bishop John Brown, UPU Christian Coordinator; Chief Amos Okioma, Press Secretary to the President General; Dr. Luckson Udu, Chairman; Mr. Emmanuel Etiaga, Organising Secretary; and other distinguished members of the Union.
They were received by the Ewhrudjakpo family, led by Hon. Chief Christopher Ewhrudjakpo, elder brother of the late Deputy Governor.
A native of Ofoni in Sagbama Local Government Area, Senator Ewhrudjakpo was an accomplished public servant and academic. Born on 5 September 1965, he held a PhD in Human Rights and Labour Law. He served as Bayelsa State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, represented Bayelsa West Senatorial District as Senator, and became Deputy Governor in 2020 under Governor Douye Diri.
His sudden death at 60, after collapsing while attending to official duties in his Yenagoa office, sent shockwaves across the state and wider political circles. The Bayelsa State Government declared three days of official mourning in his honour.
During the visit, Hon. Justice Margaret Akpomiemie (rtd) delivered heartfelt counsel, while Bishop John Brown led prayers for the peaceful repose of the late Deputy Governor’s soul and comfort for the family.
The condolence visit concluded in solemn reflection, underscoring the UPU’s solidarity with the Ewhrudjakpo family and its commitment to supporting members of the Urhobo Nation and wider community during times of profound loss.