BIPA Mourns Ewhrudjakpo, Loses Founding Member Union Oyadongha
The Bayelsa Independent Publishers Association (BIPA) has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Ph.D., describing the loss as devastating to the state, the association, and the nation at large.
In a condolence message jointly signed by its Chairman, Mr. Francis Dufugha, and Secretary, Mr. Sheriff Hussain, BIPA extended its heartfelt sympathies to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, the Ewhrudjakpo family, and the Ofoni Federated Community.
According to the Association, the news of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death came as a profound shock. It noted that members initially hoped the report was a rumour, but were later confronted with the painful reality of his passing.
BIPA described the late Deputy Governor as a dependable pillar of support and a true man of the people, whose fatherly disposition and leadership endeared him to many. The Association stated that Senator Ewhrudjakpo was invaluable to BIPA and consistently demonstrated integrity, discipline, and commitment to public service.
“The loss to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, and indeed the nation, is indescribable,” the Association noted, adding that the late Deputy Governor’s virtues remain exemplary and worthy of emulation.
The Association prayed for divine comfort and strength for the bereaved family and the people of Bayelsa State during this difficult period.
Meanwhile, in a related development, BIPA also announced the passing of one of its founding members, Elder Union Oyadongha, who died peacefully in his sleep on the same day.
Elder Oyadongha was the Publisher of Banner News tabloid, a founding member of the Bayelsa Independent Publishers Association, and a former Chairman of the Association. BIPA noted that further details regarding his burial arrangements would be communicated by the family in due course.
The Association prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and asked God to grant eternal rest to both Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and Elder Union Oyadongha.