Former football professionals in Bayelsa State have commiserated with the family of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing his sudden death as shocking and deeply saddening.
The ex-players, operating under the aegis of the All Stars Internationals of Yenagoa, paid a condolence visit to the Ewhrudjakpo family, where they described the late deputy governor as a calm, composed and supportive patron of the association.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the All Stars Internationals, Dr. Peter Singabele, said the group deemed it necessary to identify with the family in their moment of grief.
“Today is a sad day for all of us. We felt it was important to come and condole with the family and pray for the fortitude to bear this great loss,” Singabele said while addressing members of the family led by a former Permanent Secretary, Dr. Christopher Ewhrudjakpo.
Singabele explained that the All Stars Internationals is a family of retired footballers drawn from different walks of life, united by their shared passion for the game and commitment to sports development in the state.
He described the late Ewhrudjakpo as the Patron of the association and noted that the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, serves as its Grand Patron.
“Our patrons are not just supporting us with words but with genuine actions and love. The late deputy governor sometimes played football with us and assisted the association in several ways. We are here to condole with the family and to offer prayers for the repose of his soul,” he added.
Also present during the visit were the State Chairman of the association, Ebimieowei Noel Zuzu, and other members of the executive and board. The leadership of the group later signed the condolence register, after which Bishop Peter Leghemo offered prayers for the family.
Members of the All Stars Internationals on the entourage included the BOT Secretary, Dr. James Omietimi; Vice Chairman, Ebimieowei Inlagha; Secretary, Chief Tari Emberru; Provost, Elder Perela Aborasri; Treasurer, Dr. David Sese; Elder Preye Wariowei; Francis Epe; and Bishop Peter Leghemo.
Responding on behalf of the family, the spokesman of the Ewhrudjakpo family, Dereke Ediruo, expressed appreciation to members of the All Stars Internationals, Yenagoa, for the condolence visit, prayers and gift items presented to the family, describing the gesture as reassuring at a time of profound loss.