HON WISDOM ONIEKPAR IKULI
Since the painful departure of His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo Ph.D, the outstanding Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, there is outpouring of eulogies. While many may be political and routine protocol, one fact that is unanimous and can never be disputed is the agreement that he was indeed, a workaholic. He was a good administrator who exhibited high level of dedication, competence and commitment while carrying out his duties.
Besides his always tasking daily official works, he still made out time to lecture his students at the prestigious Niger Delta University (NDU). It is remarked that he had a very close relationship with his Law students.
He was generally known for his humility. He was indeed an epitome of humility. He was also compassionate. He was particular about widows, orphans, indigent and vulnerable people and all those suffering from different forms of social disabilities.
I recounted my personal experience with His Excellency at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja some months ago. I was at the Counter to pick my Boarding Pass, I never knew he was standing directly behind me. When I turned he was the one. I almost melted. I never believed. He wore his usual bowler hat and he was carrying his hand luggage, while his second luggage was in his front. I never knew when I jumped aside and told him to collect his Boarding Pass first, but he declined, he said I should go ahead.
The most surprising thing during that airport encounter is the fact that His Excellency was not with a single aide. But that was how he usually traveled. Whenever he arrives Port Harcourt International Airport from Abuja, he boards a vehicle alone and moves. He was never afraid of the unknown.
His Excellency was selfless. He never attached any value or importance to material acquisition. He was always mindful of his humble beginning.
Beyond governance, His Excellency was the Pillar and Symbol of Catholicism. He was a worthy Ambassador of the Catholic Church in Bayelsa State. He was a renowned Knight and true Soldier of the church and entire body of Christ.
Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo Ph.D knew the secret of God like King David. He loved God so much and God also loved him. He did not only danced like King David, he also fulfilled his dream and desire to build a House of Worship for God. King David desired but could not. His son, King Solomon however fulfilled the wish of his father David. His Excellency built the best Catholic Church in Bayelsa State. The beautiful place of worship that he built for God at his Ofoni Community encourages worship and promotion of the Gospel of Christ.
The St. Lawrence Catholic Chapel in the Creek Haven Government is a testimony of his love for God. Besides attending daily Masses, he devoted his daily life to evangelism through charity and others.
His Excellency occupied an enviable and almost irreplaceable position in the hearts of many Catholics because of the immeasurable and invaluable support that he gave to the Church.
While the entire state and beyond mourn, the Catholic Church is the worst hit.
I wish to extend my Heartfelt Condolences once again to his immediate family, my principal, Gov. Douye Diri who is still devastated because of this sad development and the entire state. May his great and gentle soul rest in peace.
Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli
Technical Adviser to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State on Media and Public Affairs.